Fifa has refused to take responsibility for fans and companies who have lost thousands of rands after purchasing tickets for the 2010 FIFA World Cup from agents not accredited to the football governing body.

Speaking at a media briefing – Fifa spokesman Nicolas Maingot says FIFA warned fans to buy tickets through its channels and not rely on other companies.

The Sunday Times reports companies – including Mzansi parastatal Sasol – have lost more than R6.5 million buying tickets from companies which turned out to be a fraud.

Security for 2010 spokesperson Vishnu Naidoo told YFM News local and foreign fans have fallen prey to ticket scam rings – but police are still investigating.