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AN elderly woman in Miri has reportedly lost about RM15,000 after falling victim to a suspected scam involving three foreign women posing as street shamans.
The incident is believed to have occurred at about 8am on March 4 near the Krokop Central Market when the victim, who is in her 60s, was on her way to buy vegetables.
According to sources, the woman was first approached by a foreign woman who asked where she could purchase red ginger, claiming it was needed to treat her husband.
Shortly afterwards, two more women joined them and began conversing with the victim before inviting her to continue the discussion inside a car parked behind the market, citing the hot weather.
While inside the vehicle, one of the suspects allegedly told the victim that the feng shui of her home was unfavourable and that negative spiritual forces could bring misfortune to her and her family.
The suspects then claimed that a spiritual healing ritual was required and instructed the victim to prepare a handful of rice, gold jewellery and cash.
Believing their claims, the victim returned home and later handed over the requested items, estimated to be worth around RM15,000.
The valuables were placed into a bag, which the suspects said had been blessed with a spell and must not be opened for three days.
However, when the victim opened the bag on March 6, she discovered that it contained only salt powder, two small bottles of mineral water and a packet of tissues.
Miri district police chief ACP Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah confirmed that a report had been lodged regarding the incident.
He said the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating, which carries a prison sentence of between one and 10 years, and may also include whipping and a fine upon conviction. - March 8, 2026