KUCHING: A retiree is now grappling with the loss of RM390,000 after she was misled into believing that she was involved in money laundering.
The unfortunate incident happened in November of last year when the woman, in her early 70s, received an unknown phone call from the suspect impersonating as a police officer from Perak
According to Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mancha Ata, the woman was told that she was involved in money laundering after a bank account was registered in her name.
“The suspect instructed the victim to transfer money to an unknown account for the purpose of being audited by Bank Negara.
“Once her money is audited, it would be returned back to her account.
“As instructed, the woman transferred a sum of RM390,000 via 17 transactions into two different bank accounts in mid-November.”
When the woman did not receive her money back as promised, she realised the deception and reported the incident to the police.
The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating and dishonestly inducing the delivery of property.
In view of this, Comm Mancha urged the public not to entertain any unknown phone calls.
The public are also advised against panicking or worrying about unfounded allegations made against them if they have not done anything wrong.
Comm Mancha also reminded the public not to provide their banking information to any unknown individuals or parties.
