AFROWOSU: African hardwood exporter

Hi,

Not sure if i have been scammed. I am looking to import some african hardwood and have been in contact with Afrowosu. They were very professional and had a professional website which is currently down. http://afrowosu.com/ (i was told they are expanding the business so the site is being rebuilt)

I have send them a pre-payment of 40% for a 20 foot container of wood. Everything seemed fine until i was told that the rep made a mistake and for the 20 foot container they wanted a 60% prepayment. Red flags went up. Not sure if they are legit or not. Can anyone find out somehow? I will not be sending futher payment.

They have a linked in presence: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amadu-ali-a436a386

And a Facebook presence: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id ... 54&fref=ts

I also found them on a few directories in a google search.


contact details:
Main Office

401 Wekaroad Ekona Mbenge
Fako Division, SWR, Cameroon
P: (237) 322-624 200

E: [email protected]

H: Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Douala office

Akwa Douala Besides UBank
Littoral Region, LTR, Cameroon
P: (237) 682-730 546

E: [email protected]

H: Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Hello and welcome to scamwarners. The web site appears to have been taken down by the host for some reason. I seriously doubt the "company" took the complete site down to do an up grade.
The site was first registered in May for the minimum period of one year which is typical of a scammer owned web site.

Domain Name: AFROWOSU.COM
Registrar: PDR LTD. D/B/A PUBLICDOMAINREGISTRY.COM
Sponsoring Registrar IANA ID: 303
Whois Server: whois.PublicDomainRegistry.com
Referral URL: http://www.publicdomainregistry.com
Name Server: PARK1.HOSTING24.COM
Name Server: PARK2.HOSTING24.COM
Status: clientTransferProhibited https://icann.org/epp#clientTransferProhibited
Updated Date: 16-dec-2016
Creation Date: 11-may-2016
Expiration Date: 11-may-2017

Please post the full email including the email address asking for the payments.

[AlanJones]

From Google's cache of the contact page:

AFRICAN WOOD SUPPLIERS GROUP & COMPANY LIMITED

Main Office

401 Wekaroad Ekona Mbenge
Fako Division, SWR, Cameroon
P: (237) 322-624 200

E: [email protected]

H: Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Douala office

Akwa Douala Besides UBank
Littoral Region, LTR, Cameroon
P: (237) 682-730 546

E: [email protected]

H: Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Turkish Representative

Istanbul
Turkey
P: (000) 000-000 000

E: [email protected]

H: Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

German Representative

Frankfurt
Germany
P: (000) 000-000 000

E: [email protected]

H: Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Indian Representative

Balaji Nagar, Satara Road
Pune, Maharashtra State, India
P: (000) 000-000 000

E: [email protected]

H: Monday - Saturday: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM

The missing Turkish, German and Indian phone numbers are a good indication that the company is not real, as is the fact that the domain is registered to someone in the USA, yet the site has no mention of an office in the USA.

Registrant Name: Randolf Bah
Registrant Organization: VAT:
Registrant Street: 5757 derby ct
Registrant City: LAUREL
Registrant State/Province: MD
Registrant Postal Code: 20878
Registrant Country: US
Registrant Phone: +1.2026317676
Registrant Phone Ext:
Registrant Fax:
Registrant Fax Ext:
Registrant Email: [email protected]

[AlanJones]

Here is the e-mail about additional payments:

Good Morning XXX,
I had a little misunderstanding with my boss regarding the terms i agreed with you and some expenses i did not include in the final price given to you. Please read my CEO's email below i forwarded. Please reply me as soon as possible.

Thank you,
Randolph Enfang
Communication Manager
Afrowosu Group & Co.Ltd
Sales/Export Department.
Tel: +237-682 715 549
Skype: afrowosu
site: http://www.afrowosu.com

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: AFROWOSU <[email protected]>
Date: Thu, Dec 15, 2016 at 9:26 PM
Subject: Re: Client for Invoice 312DYD
To: African Wood Suppliers AFROWOSU Group <[email protected]>

I have always told you to load as many cubic meters as possible if you are to ship wood with less mass.
In this container, you could load 18,600kg which is about 28cbm according to the species required by the client. Klin drying will further reduce the weight. Be more concern about the weight and not the volume. This, i have indicated several times.

The Klin Drying should begin today evening since you already have proof of payment from the customer and the financial manager has approved of it. As i earlier told, the balance payment should be 40% not 60%. We are expecting this amount CAD on arrival. So let the client complete the payment to 60% advance payment. Thus pay additional 1,720 USD.
40% should always be requested for a minimum order of 01 X 40ft not a 20ft fcl container.

As per the cost estimate, look at where more expenses are coming in;
* the cost for an opened sided container was not included,
* the klin drying will require more hours of work thus more electric power charges.
You cannot add this extra cost to the invoiced amount because its unethical business practice. So we would have to bear these extra expenses.

Suggest to the client if you can add 04cbm to the 24cbm to make it 28cbm (18,600kg). If he accept then we can proceed and indicate later in the packing list and commercial invoice not necessarily drawing up a new proforma invoice.
Then confirm the MC(Moisture) to be 10, 12 or 14%.
Sincerely,

Alangu Paul




Here is the e-mails back and forth:

Good morning XXX,
Please ask your bank for the swift message and receipt of payment of the transfer and send to us okay.
By swift message, we mean the telex showing how the transfer will move from your bank to the intermediary bank then to our bank.

Keep in touch..

Thank you,
Randolph Enfang
Communication Manager
Afrowosu Group & Co.Ltd
Sales/Export Department.
Tel: +237-682 715 549
Skype: afrowosu
site: http://www.afrowosu.com

On Tue, Dec 13, 2016 at 12:35 PM, XXX <XXX> wrote:
Hi Randolph,

I have made the deposit payment of $3440.80 USD. My bank's swift code is : XXX

I have also attached the sign invoice. Please change the postal code to XXX in your records as i provided you an incorrect one originally.

Please confirm receipt of payment. Once you confirm please provide me an estimate on when the container will arrive. Also if possible, can you please send me some pictures of the container being loaded. I would like to post it on my website. If you require anything further in the mean time please let me know.

Thanks,
XXX

On 12 December 2016 at 15:54, African Wood Suppliers AFROWOSU Group <[email protected]> wrote:
Good evening XXX,
You should sign the invoice and send us a copy.
Regarding the second payment, it would be paid upon arrival of the container at sight as you can see on the invoice.

Once the first payment is done, do send us a swift from your bank so we can start work immediately.
We accept payment via bank wire transfer as well as money transfer like westernunion too for such small amounts.

i wait forward to receive the sign invoice from your site.

Thank you,
Randolph Enfang
Communication Manager
Afrowosu Group & Co.Ltd
Sales/Export Department.
Tel: +237-682 715 549
Skype: afrowosu
site: http://www.afrowosu.com

On Mon, Dec 12, 2016 at 12:46 PM, XXX <XXX> wrote:
Hi Randolph,

I will be ready to send the first payment in a couple of days. Can you please let me know when the 2nd payment is to be made? Is it made when the wood leaves port or when it arrives in XXX? Also what do you require from me? Do i need to send you a signed copy of the invoice agreement and let you know when i send the first payment?

Thanks,
Mike

On 9 December 2016 at 07:35, African Wood Suppliers AFROWOSU Group <[email protected]> wrote:
Good afternoon XXX,
As you can see on the invoice, the working terms are CIF not FOB.
These prices are FOB Douala port, Cameroon.
USD 315.00/ CBM for Bubinga
USD 315 Per Padauk
USD 300 Per African Walnut
USD 310 Per CBM for Okan
USD 290 Per CBM for Zebrawood

and the prices in the invoice are CIF XXX thus we pay shipping fee(Freight) and maritime insurance. We are responsible till port of XXX.

Thank you,
Randolph Enfang
Communication Manager
Afrowosu Group & Co.Ltd
Sales/Export Department.
Tel: +237-682 715 549
Skype: afrowosu
site: http://www.afrowosu.com

On Thu, Dec 8, 2016 at 9:42 PM, XXX <XXX> wrote:
Hi Randolph,

i was wondering why the price per CM has increased since your last quote.

These are the prices you quoted earlier in your e-mails:
USD 315.00/ CBM for Bubinga
USD 315 Per Padauk
USD 300 Per African Walnut
USD 310 Per CBM for Okan
USD 290 Per CBM for Zebrawood

Can you please advise the difference in the quote and invoice. Also does the invoice include shipping?

Thanks,
XXX

On 8 December 2016 at 09:46, African Wood Suppliers AFROWOSU Group <[email protected]> wrote:
Good afternoon XXX,
Attached herewith is the proforma invoice, bank attestation and sample photos of specimens you should expect from us. We would send you a piece of each of the specimens (one meter length each) so you can taste and if okay, we can export.

As you can see, we issued an invoice only in this trial shipment. Once you receive the shipment and its tasted and approved, we can then sign a long term contract.

Your request for a side loaded container is noted.

Thank you,
Randolph Enfang
Communication Manager
Afrowosu Group & Co.Ltd
Sales/Export Department.
Tel: +237-682 715 549
Skype: afrowosu
site: http://www.afrowosu.com

On Wed, Dec 7, 2016 at 12:04 PM, XXX> wrote:
Ok great. Also please use a side loaded container to ease unloading like so https://i.ytimg.com/vi/WDjiz7KBGJM/maxresdefault.jpg

Also i noted on your website that you offer samples of all the different wood species. If you could also put some samples of the different wood species you offer if there is room. This would help me in determining future orders.

Thanks,
XXX

On 7 December 2016 at 05:04, African Wood Suppliers AFROWOSU Group <[email protected]> wrote:
Okay Mike,
We would proceed as per your last request while hoping to get big orders from you in next orders.

Thank you,
Randolph Enfang
Communication Manager
Afrowosu Group & Co.Ltd
Sales/Export Department.
Tel: +237-682 715 549
Skype: afrowosu
site: http://www.afrowosu.com

On 6 December 2016 at 20:54, African Wood Suppliers AFROWOSU Group <[email protected]> wrote:
Hi XXX,
I have reviewed your order again and tried to do some estimates on how the slabs can be cut.
Isn't it possible you take atleast a 40ft fcl container?
To cut out a full slabs of just 02 to 03 cbm will not be easy moreso, will require that the rest of the log be wasted.
In a forty(40ft) we can load 40cbm or slightly more of which 8cbm is allowed as supplementary stock instead of wasting.
Thus charge you for 32cbm only.
Also the difference in freight fee between a 20ft and 40ft is just 300usd max.

What about length? in a forty foot, we got inner space of 12122 mm and 5935 mm for a twenty(20ft).

Let me know your thoughts about this my proposal.

Thank you,
Randolph Enfang
Communication Manager
Afrowosu Group & Co.Ltd
Sales/Export Department.
Tel: +237-682 715 549
Skype: afrowosu
site: http://www.afrowosu.com

On 6 December 2016 at 15:07, African Wood Suppliers AFROWOSU Group <[email protected]> wrote:
Good evening XXX,
Your order is well noted.
Usually our Minimum Order Quantity is 24 cubic meters.

You will have to provide us consignee's details such as name and address (Importers details).
Regarding clearing agent, we usually work with CMA CGM, an agent from this company can handle the woof from port to your warehouse at your expense off course.

I will be waiting to read from you with with consignee details so we can draw up the proforma invoice tomorrow.

Thank you,
Randolph Enfang
Communication Manager
Afrowosu Group & Co.Ltd
Sales/Export Department.
Tel: +237-682 715 549
Skype: afrowosu
site: http://www.afrowosu.com

On 28 November 2016 at 14:44, African Wood Suppliers AFROWOSU Group <[email protected]> wrote:
Hello Mike,
Herewith is my skype: Afrowosu

Thank you,
Randolph Enfang
Communication Manager
Afrowosu Group & Co.Ltd
Sales/Export Department.
Tel: +237-682 715 549
Skype: afrowosu
site: http://www.afrowosu.com

On 11 November 2016 at 09:42, African Wood Suppliers AFROWOSU Group <[email protected]> wrote:
Greetings XXX,
The container will be delivered to your port that is where our responsibility ends according to CIF terms.
Normally the container is never unloaded at the port, it will be unloaded at your warehouse but note that the cost from port to your warehouse is yours not our since the terms we are to work with is CIF.

If we are to deliver the container to your warehouse, then we have to work with CPT..(Carriage Paid To...customers warehouse) terms.
So this will depend on you what you prefer but we will like to work with FOB, CNF and CIF but can accept CPT if this is new to you.
My logistic partner can arrange all above terms.

Regarding container type, it depends on what we decide and conclude on.
The open type container can be taken. The container that opens on all sides is also possible but the less expensive and most used type is the one that opens at the bottom only. The difference ranges from 40 to 120usd.

Hope the above information is of help.
I will always be here to give you all details within my reach.

Thank you,
Randolph Enfang
Communication Manager
Afrowosu Group & Co.Ltd
Sales/Export Department.
Tel: +237-682 715 549
Skype: afrowosu
site: http://www.afrowosu.com

On Nov 10, 2016 5:45 PM, "African Wood Suppliers AFROWOSU Group" <[email protected]> wrote:
Good eveing XXX,
All these species can be shipped to you in any form as per your request.
It's not obligatory that we process ebony in directional lumber okay.

Herewith our quote for Grade "A" Quality AD/KD Boules(live edge slabs);
USD 300 Per African Walnut
USD 315.00/ CBM for Bubinga
USD 315 Per Padauk
USD 295 Per CBM for African Rosewood
USD 290 Per CBM for Zebrawood
USD 310 Per CBM for Okan
USD 320 Per Black Ebony
USD 305 Per Afrormosia
USD 300 Per Beli
USD 310 Per Ovangkol
USD 295 Per Acajou / African Mahogany
USD 315 Per Sipo.

Freight to XXX ranges from USD1400 to USD1622 depending on carrier.

Thank you,
Randolph Enfang
Communication Manager
Afrowosu Group & Co.Ltd
Sales/Export Department.
Tel: +237-682 715 549
Skype: afrowosu
site: http://www.afrowosu.com

On Nov 5, 2016 12:45 PM, "AFROWOSU Group" <[email protected]> wrote:
Hello XXX,
My Shipping agent is yet to give me quote for your port so add to the cost of goods and give you the CIF quote to your port.
Be patient please.

Thank you,
Randolph Enfang
Communication Manager
Afrowosu Group & Co.Ltd
Sales/Export Department.
Tel: +237-682 715 549
Skype: afrowosu
site: http://www.afrowosu.com

On Fri, Nov 4, 2016 at 8:29 AM, AFROWOSU Group <[email protected]> wrote:
Okay,
I will send you quote later this evening.

Thank you,
Randolph Enfang
Communication Manager
Afrowosu Group & Co.Ltd
Sales/Export Department.
Tel: +237-682 715 549
Skype: afrowosu
site: http://www.afrowosu.com

On 11 October 2016 at 17:34, AFROWOSU Group <[email protected]> wrote:
Hello XXX,
Sorry for the delay.... i have been working out of the office.
Herewith our quote for Grade "A" Quality KD Boules(live edge slabs)
All Below prices are per Cubic Meter FOB Douala port, Cameroon.

Padouk: USD370.00
Sapele: USD375.00
African Mahogany: USD370.00
Black Ebony(directional lumber): USD392.00

Our white ebony is exactly as the one you attached.

Thank you,
Randolph Enfang
Communication Manager
Afrowosu Group & Co.Ltd
Sales/Export Department.
Tel: +237-682 715 549
Skype: afrowosu
site: http://www.afrowosu.com

On 7 October 2016 at 06:55, AFROWOSU Group <[email protected]> wrote:
Hello XXX,
The type of Ebony we can supply is the black type.
In Cameroon we call it Ebene. Check this link of our website and confirm if its what you are talking about then i will send you quote.
Link is: http://www.afrowosu.com/africanebony.html

Regarding burls, we do not have this specie. If you wish, i can source it from another supplier.

Waiting your reply for Ebony then i can send you full quote with the other species you mentioned.

Thank you,
Randolph Enfang
Communication Manager
Afrowosu Group & Co.Ltd
Sales/Export Department.
Tel: +237-682 715 549
Skype: afrowosu
site: http://www.afrowosu.com

Yup its a scam. AFROWOSU is a non delivery scam.

Its a Cameroon Export Scam . They probably pulled the content from their site after you posted here, so we couldn't see it . If you lost any money you can report it on the IC3 website .


+237 682 715549
+237 682715549
+237682715549