Ovivo Mobile shuts down without warning, stranding 50,000 users

UK phone network Ovivo Mobile shut down last night without any prior warning, leaving an estimated 50,000 users without a signal.

The network, an MVNO that piggybacked on Vodafone's infrastructure in the same manner as Tesco Mobile or Giffgaff, announced last night it was ceasing trading. I've contacted Vodafone for comment and will update when I hear back.

"We are very sad to announce that for reasons beyond our control, Ovivo Mobile is closing down on the evening of Wednesday 19 March 2014," the company said in a statement. "We'd like to thank each and every one of you for your support and friendship over the last two years."

Ovivo customers can fill out a form on the company's website to obtain their PAC code, so they can switch to another network. "We will arrange for your PAC code to arrive as quickly as possible but there is a high demand for this service," the company warned.

Customers noticed an inability to call yesterday afternoon. Many have since taken to consumer forum Hot UK Deals to complain of an inability to access outstanding credit and of not being notified by the company.

The CEO, Dariush Zand, removed his personal profile from Facebook after it was posted on the forum.

Earlier this month, Zand told industry site Mobile News he was looking for £3m in investment. "Now is the time for us to expand the business in the UK, increase our customer base and also begin to look at the possible international expansion of the business going forward," he said.

If you've paid for goods and services from the company you've not received, you may be covered by your credit card or bank. I'd also advise cancelling any direct debit with your bank directly.

Have you been left high and dry by Ovivo? Have your say in the comments.