Tawau lost RM98.7 million to commercial crime last year

LocalBusiness & Finance
11 Feb 2025 • 9:28 AM MYT
Daily Express
Daily Express

Daily Express Online (Malaysia) is Sabah's top-ranked & most viewed English news site. It is also Sabah's leading & most circulated daily English newspaper.

image is not available

By: Lagatah Toyos

TAWAU: A total of 149 commercial crime cases were reported to the police here last year, with losses estimated at RM98.7 million.

Tawau District Police Chief ACP Jasmin Hussin said phone scams were the most prevalent type of commercial crime, with 45 cases recorded.

AdvertisementHe said victims of these scams included well-educated individuals.

“Therefore, I advise the public to conduct business dealings directly at the relevant offices, rather than relying on phone calls from purported government departments,” he told a press conference, Monday.

SPONSORED CONTENT How Spritzer’s silica rich natural mineral water makes your skin healthier When it comes to skincare, the first thought on our minds would be beauty products such as serums, creams, and masks. However, beauty experts and even researchers have stated that drinking more water can be just as crucial for your skin's health. Read more Jasmin also urged scam victims to report to the police, as doing so would allow investigations to take place, helping authorities track down the criminals or take action through financial institutions and other channels.

Additionally, he mentioned that police have been collaborating with the local Education Department to raise public awareness about the dangers of phone scams and encourage vigilance against such crimes.

Advertisement“I also urge everyone to share information through media channels like the Tawau Police Facebook page to educate the public on commercial crime prevention,” he added.

Jasmin also noted a decrease in overall crime cases, with 650 cases reported last year, down from 795 cases in the previous year, with 470 cases brought to the Tawau Court.

AdvertisementDuring the event, Jamin presented the Tawau District Police Chief’s Certificate of Appreciation to 35 senior police officers, junior officers and civil servants in recognition of their outstanding service and improvement and sports.