KOTA SAMARAHAN: A real estate manager has fallen victim to an online investment scam, which left him RM150,000 poorer.
The unfortunate ordeal happened early this month when the victim in his 20s, got acquainted with an individual named ‘Lim Cheng Fan’ on Facebook.
Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohd Azman Ahmad Sapri said ‘Lim’ then introduced the victim to an enticing USDT currency investment opportunity.
To streamline the investment process, the suspect shared his phone number with the victim.
“Driven by the promise of lucrative returns, the victim proceeded to transfer RM150,000 into three bank accounts via nine transactions.
“These funds were intended as investments in USDT currency,” he said.
However, the victim’s optimism turned to despair as the suspect provided a series of excuses when questioned about the investment’s purported profits.
Mohd Azman stated that all communication with the suspect were eventually ceased, leaving the victim in disbelief.
Realising he had been ensnared in a fraudulent scheme, the victim lodged a police report on Sept 19 for further action.
The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating and dishonestly inducing the delivery of property.
If convicted, the offence carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison, caning and fine.
In light of this, the public are advised to only invest through proper platforms that are registered with Bank Negara Malaysia and Securities Commission Malaysia, and seek financial advice from registered agents only about an investment.
Furthermore, Mohd Azman urged the public to exercise caution when encountering dubious investment that offers lucrative returns in a short period of time.
