Unprofessional Conduct and Unjustified Blocking of My Bank Account With FNB

To: Complaints Department First National Bank (FNB)

I am writing to lodge a formal complaint regarding the blocking of my account and the unprofessional conduct of one of your consultants, who identified himself as Mark.

I have been banking with First National Bank for more than 10 years. During this time, I have maintained both personal and business accounts and have always conducted legitimate business transactions. My businesses operate lawfully and comply fully with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) requirements.

Recently, a client from Kenya paid an amount of R40,000 for services rendered. The payment was made into my South African FNB account. As I am based in South Africa, it is standard practice for my clients to pay into my South African bank account.

Following this transaction, I received a call from a consultant named Marc Chetty. During this call, he was extremely rude, aggressive, and dismissive. I was not given a fair opportunity to explain my situation, and he raised concerns in a manner that I found highly unprofessional.

His concerns appeared to be related to the following: 1. That my company name Zaynsali 21 Investment differs from the trading name of my events business Sparkle and Splendour Events. 2. That my proof of address had not yet been updated for my office and storage premises.

I explained that I had recently changed addresses and that I would provide the updated proof of address. However, despite my willingness to comply and provide the required documentation, my account was blocked. This has severely disrupted my business operations.

My businesses are legitimate, and I comply with SARS regulations. My accounts process a monthly turnover exceeding between R500,000- 900,000 monthly , and I depend on my banking facilities to operate effectively. The blocking of my account without reasonable engagement has caused significant inconvenience and financial disruption.

Furthermore, I was questioned about whether my business has a website. I explained that my events business currently operates through social media platforms such as Instagram. Many legitimate businesses operate this way, and having a website is not a legal requirement to run a business.

I am deeply concerned about the tone and manner in which the consultant addressed me. I felt intimidated and disrespected during the call. I request that this interaction be reviewed.

I therefore request the following: 1. Immediate review and urgent unblocking of my account so that I can continue operating my business. 2. Clear communication regarding any documentation required so that I may provide it promptly. 3. An investigation into the conduct of the consultant involved. 4. Confirmation that the R40,000 payment will either be released to me or returned to the sender if FNB refuses to process it.

As a long-standing client of FNB, I expect professional and fair treatment. I hope this matter can be resolved urgently.

Kind regards,

Esther Nestor Director – Zaynsali 21 Investment Trading as Sparkle and Splendour Events Centurion, Gauteng South Africa