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A WOMAN has lost RM622,792.65 after being deceived by an individual impersonating a Hong Kong lawyer who allegedly offered to help recover money she had previously lost in a social media jewellery purchase scam.
Miri District Police Chief Assistant Commissioner Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah said police received a report on July 18 after the 27-year-old victim realised she had been tricked by an individual she contacted through social media.
He said the local woman had earlier been approached by a person who claimed to be a lawyer from Hong Kong and offered assistance to recover her lost funds.
"The suspect offered to help recover the woman's money, which she had previously lost due to a fraudulent jewellery purchase through social media.
"However, to obtain the service, the victim was instructed to make payments using cryptocurrency through 12 transactions from June 23, 2026, until July 18, 2026.
"The total estimated losses amounted to RM622,792.65," he said in a statement today.
Mohd Farhan said the victim only realised she had been deceived after attempting to contact the individual again, only to find that her telephone number had been blocked.
The case is being investigated by the Miri District Commercial Crime Investigation Division under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating.
If convicted, offenders face imprisonment of between one and 10 years, whipping and a fine. - July 19, 2026
