Face mask fraud: 393 cases amounting to RM1.1mil in losses reported, says Deputy IGP

KUALA LUMPUR (Bernama): A total of 393 cases of fraud involving the sale of face masks were reported to the police nationwide, with losses amounting to RM1.1mil.

Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Mazlan Mansor said he was taking the cases seriously and so far, 26 people had been arrested with several already charged in court.

"Some are still taking the opportunity to deceive the public in this situation (Covid-19 pandemic)... the police are conducting further investigations into these cases," he said when appearing as a guest on the Malaysia Hari Ini (MHI) programme on TV3.

Meanwhile, Mazlan said 94 investigation papers were opened nationwide with regard to the spread of fake news relating to the Covid-19 outbreak.

"Six cases have been filed in court while the rest are still under investigation. The police would like to advise the public to use social media wisely.

"Stern action will be taken against those who spread fake news about anything happening in the country," he said.

Commenting on the extension of the movement control order (MCO) until April 14, Mazlan said the police were ready to carry out the order to ensure that the Covid-19 infection chain could be broken.

"The police have a specific strategy and I hope the public will comply with the rules outlined during the implementation of the MCO. Legal action (will be taken) in case of failure to comply, ” he added. - Bernama