The Criminal Investigation Division of the Kota Kinabalu District Police Headquarters (IPD) has opened 302 investigation papers related to financial crimes, revealing losses amounting to RM37.762 million over a brief three-month span from May to July last year. This staggering figure underscores the alarming rise in financial fraud within the district, with a significant portion of these crimes linked to online fraud.
Kota Kinabalu District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Kasim Muda, disclosed during a press conference at IPD Kota Kinabalu that out of the 302 cases, a whopping 203 were connected to online fraud, leading to losses of RM8.151 million. The prevalence of online scams has become a growing concern, with cybercriminals adopting increasingly sophisticated tactics to exploit unsuspecting victims.
Among the notable cases during this period were six high-profile incidents that sent shockwaves through the community. These included five cases of fraudsters impersonating account owners to withdraw fixed savings from a commercial bank, resulting in an unprecedented loss of RM24.7 million. Additionally, one case of online fraud amounted to a staggering RM1.5 million. The brazenness and scale of these crimes have raised questions about the security measures in place to protect customers' financial assets.
In a concerted effort to combat this wave of financial crime, 90 suspects were apprehended, including 24 individuals with significant social standing, such as those bearing the prestigious “Datuk” title, government officials, and bank officers. These high-profile arrests highlight the involvement of influential figures in orchestrating or abetting these criminal activities. The suspects have since been charged in the Sessions Court under Section 130V(1) of the Penal Code for Organised Crime, underscoring the seriousness of these offenses.
Assistant Commissioner Kasim Muda further elaborated on the modus operandi of these fraudsters, particularly the use of “account mules” in facilitating online fraud. Account mules are individuals who allow their bank accounts to be used by criminals for illegal transactions. In many cases, these mules are unaware of the full extent of the crimes they are enabling, often receiving a small, one-time payment of RM200 to RM500 for their participation. However, if caught, these individuals face severe legal consequences, including prosecution.
The police also identified a disturbing trend involving “drug mules,” which includes ordinary individuals, such as school students, who are recruited by criminal syndicates in exchange for quick cash. These individuals, often lured by the promise of easy money, fail to grasp the grave legal repercussions of their actions. Kasim highlighted the vulnerability of these individuals, particularly students, who may not fully understand the risks involved.
In response to the surge in fraud cases, Kasim issued a stern warning to the public, urging them to remain vigilant against phone scams. He emphasized that government agencies such as the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), or the courts would never contact individuals by phone to demand money or personal information. Engaging with such callers could result in falling victim to their schemes.
Kasim also advised caution when encountering non-existent loan advertisements, part-time job scams, and schemes requiring upfront payments. The public is urged to verify the legitimacy of any financial offer or request before providing any personal or financial information.
The Kota Kinabalu District Police’s swift action in opening probe papers and arresting suspects sends a strong message that financial crimes will not be tolerated. However, the rising number of cases serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued vigilance and enhanced security measures to protect individuals and their financial assets from fraudsters.
By: Kpost
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