KUANTAN, Sept 26 - A farmer and agricultural product trader lost more than RM1.15 million after falling victim to a love scam syndicate.
Pahang acting police chief Datuk Azry Akmar Ayob said the victim, a 50-year-old woman, befriended an individual known as Siew Gui Lim @ Jason via WhatsApp on July 17 before their relationship grew closer.
"The suspect then posed as a cybersecurity consulting director and offered a gold investment, promising the victim profits.
"After the victim made payments linked to the investment, the suspect introduced a platform called 'Veniec Lottery,' claimed to be an effort to recover the invested money," he said in a statement today.
The victim was then persuaded to make several deposits to obtain profits and bonuses, before transferring funds to seven bank accounts totalling RM1,150,034.70, from her savings as well as loans from family members.
"However, the victim was unable to withdraw the money. Then she realised that she had been scammed," he said. Police are investigating the case under Section 420 of the Penal Code.
Azry advised the public not to be easily deceived by individuals who use friendship or special relationships to persuade them to make investments or hand over money.
"In addition, the public is advised to check account numbers and phone numbers through the Semak Mule platform before carrying out any financial transactions.
“Those who suspect they have become scam victims are urged to immediately contact the National Scam Response Centre at 997 or lodge a police report," he said.