Mohd Farhan says the victim lodged a report on Wednesday after realising she had been duped. — Bernama photo

MIRI (April 23): A 48-year-old woman has lost RM485,832 to an online investment scam after being lured through an advertisement on Instagram.

Miri police chief ACP Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah said the victim lodged a report on Wednesday after realising she had been duped.

“The victim was initially drawn to an investment advertisement on Instagram and clicked on a link that directed her to an individual who identified himself as ‘Han Zhi Hai’, contactable via an international number.

“She was promised high returns within a short period, and persuaded to transfer funds across 14 separate transactions into 12 different bank accounts, totalling RM485,832,” he said in a statement.

Mohd Farhan said the woman grew suspicious after failing to receive the promised returns, with the suspect repeatedly giving excuses each time she attempted to claim her profits.

The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating, which provides imprisonment of between one and 10 years, along with whipping and possible fine, upon conviction.

Mohd Farhan reminded the public to remain vigilant and not be easily swayed by investment advertisements promising high returns in a short time.

He said verification of any investment scheme can be made through Bank Negara Malaysia’s Financial Consumer Alert List at www.bnm.gov.my, or the Securities Commission Malaysia’s Investor Alert List at www.sc.com.my.

“Those who have recently transferred money to a suspected scam account are urged to contact the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) immediately at 997,” he said.

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