KUANTAN, Sept 26 – A 50-year-old female farmer and agricultural product trader lost RM1.15 million after falling victim to a sophisticated online love and investment scam.
Pahang Acting Police Chief Datuk Azry Akmar Ayob reported that the victim befriended a suspect who identified himself as “Siew Gui Lim @ Jason” via WhatsApp on July 17, with the relationship quickly developing into a romantic friendship.
Posing as a cybersecurity consulting director, the suspect subsequently persuaded the victim to join an online gold investment scheme promising high returns.
“After the victim made initial payments linked to the investment, the suspect introduced a platform called ‘Veniec Lottery,’ claiming it was an avenue to recover and expand her invested capital,” Azry Akmar said in a statement on Saturday.
Enticed by promises of profits and performance bonuses, the victim conducted multiple wire transfers totaling RM1,150,034.70 across seven separate bank accounts. The funds comprised her personal savings alongside loans obtained from family members.
The victim realized she had been defrauded after repeated attempts to withdraw her purported profits and principal capital were blocked.
Police are investigating the case under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating, which carries a penalty of up to 10 years’ imprisonment, whipping, and a fine upon conviction.
Azry Akmar urged the public to remain vigilant against online acquaintances using romantic relationships or financial opportunities to solicit money. He advised citizens to verify bank account details and phone numbers via the police’s Semak Mule platform before initiating financial transactions, and to immediately contact the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) at 997 if they suspect scam activity.
–NMT
More Stories
Malaysian Bar to Challenge Najib’s Second Pardon, Demands Declassification of Minutes
Penang Customs Seizes RM1.58 Million in Untaxed Cigarettes and Liquor Across Two Raids
Police Bust RM33.4 Million Cannabis Distribution Ring, 12 Arrested