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A 64-YEAR-OLD retired private sector worker in Miri has been left devastated after losing more than RM1.17 million to a sophisticated ‘love scam’ syndicate operating through social media platforms.
The victim is believed to have first contacted the suspect through TikTok, before their conversations progressed to WhatsApp. The individual, posing as a foreign national, allegedly used fabricated photographs and documents to gain her trust.
According to a police source, the suspect employed affectionate language and false promises, claiming involvement in a resource exploration project that required financial assistance.
The deception was further reinforced when the suspect alleged that his bank account had been frozen, persuading the victim to provide advance payments.
"Without realising she had been deceived, the victim carried out 59 transactions to nine third-party accounts, with the total amount reaching RM1,173,700.
"The fraudulent activity only came to light after the victim discussed the matter with family members before lodging a police report.
"The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating, which carries a penalty of imprisonment of not less than one year and not more than 10 years, whipping, and a fine upon conviction," the source said.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid placing trust in strangers on social media, particularly those who profess romantic intentions within a short period. - April 16, 2026
