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Case highlights continued public vulnerability to online scams - January 11, 2026
A private sector employee in Tangkak has lost more than RM23,000 after falling victim to a non-existent investment scheme that had already been flagged on the police-backed Semak Mule portal
A PRIVATE sector worker lost RM23,506 after falling victim to a phantom investment scheme that had previously been flagged on the police’s Semak Mule portal, police said.
The 53-year-old woman was enticed by promises of quick and guaranteed returns that existed only on paper.
Police said the losses could have been avoided had the scheme been verified through Semak Mule, an online platform operated with police support that allows the public to check bank accounts and phone numbers suspected of being linked to scams or mule account activity.
Tangkak district police chief Superintendent Roslan Mohd Talib said the victim lodged a police report yesterday after realising she had been deceived.
“The investment scheme, known as ‘A.D Evoque,’ has been flagged on Semak Mule,” Roslan said.
He said the woman agreed to invest after being assured of lucrative profits within a short period and guarantees that her capital would be fully protected.
According to Roslan, the victim made nine online cash transfers to five different bank accounts, all believed to be mule accounts used to facilitate the scam.
The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating, which carries a punishment of up to 10 years’ imprisonment, whipping, and a fine upon conviction.
Roslan urged the public to remain cautious and not to be easily persuaded by investment offers promising high returns with minimal risk over a short period.
He also advised potential investors to conduct thorough checks before committing any funds and to keep abreast of the latest scam tactics through the Commercial Crime Investigation Department’s official social media platforms.
Victims of scams were urged to contact the National Scam Response Centre at 997 immediately so that authorities can act swiftly to block further fund outflows from suspect accounts. - January 11, 2026
Scam, Investment Fraud, Semak Mule, Police, Johor