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A TOTAL of 223 victims of a multi-million-ringgit investment scam involving vending machines and coffee machines are urging the police to reopen the case, claiming that the investigation has stalled before reaching prosecution.
The fraud has resulted in losses exceeding RM14 million.
Datuk Hishamuddin Hashim, Secretary-General of the Malaysian Humanitarian Society International (MHO), said the appeal comes after complaints that authorities had not pursued the case to court.
He explained that the victims were allegedly deceived by two separate companies offering distinct investment programmes.
"The investment programme organised by the first company involved vending machines, while the second company promoted coffee machine investments, widely marketed to Malaysians through social media," he said.
"Social media was the main platform for advertising these investment schemes. To date, the total losses amount to RM14,265,784.84. Victims have lodged police reports, and investigations have been conducted thoroughly, which we appreciate."
Hishamuddin added that the Selangor Police Chief had previously stated in June that the investigation papers had been referred to the Deputy Public Prosecutor (DPP) and the decision was made not to proceed with charges under criminal fraud.
"Subsequently, on 8 August, the victims approached the Selangor DPP office to appeal the decision. On 12 August, the victims’ lawyers received a positive response," he said.
According to Hishamuddin, the letter from the Selangor State Prosecution Director instructed that the investigation papers relating to the companies be reviewed and further directions issued to the investigating officers.
"The purpose of the victims’ presence today is to request further feedback from the Selangor police, in the hope of receiving a positive response and for the authorities to reassess all facts and evidence in the case," he said.
He stressed that victims are seeking a thorough re-examination of the companies’ actions, particularly regarding intent, false representation, and modus operandi, under the criminal fraud provisions of the Penal Code.
"The victims believe there is still a strong basis for criminal charges to be filed against those who deceived them, in order to ensure justice is served and to prevent more people from falling victim," he added. - December 4, 2025
