PASIR GUDANG: An e-hailing driver has reportedly lost RM504,000 in savings after falling victim to an online investment scam.
Seri Alam OCPD Superintendent Mohd Sohaimi Ishak said that the victim became involved with an investment scheme called “SPDR,” which she discovered on Facebook in August this year.
“She was then added to the SPDR WhatsApp group, where she was given instructions on how to invest,” he explained in a statement on Thursday (Nov 28).
The 44-year-old local woman was promised an immediate 3% return on her investment for a three-month period.
“Enticed by the offer, the victim downloaded the investment app Arcadia Equity to follow the instructions,” said Supt Mohd Sohaimi.
Between Oct 17 and Nov 21 2024, she made 10 bank transactions, transferring a total of RM504,000 into four different bank accounts.
The victim claimed she received RM400 in profits during October and saw further gains reflected in the app in November. However, when she attempted to withdraw her profits, she was unsuccessful. The suspect then pressured her to invest additional funds, but she declined.
“On Nov 25, the victim lodged a police report after realising she had been defrauded. She could no longer access the app and had been removed from the WhatsApp group,” Supt Mohd Sohaimi added.
The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code.
Supt Mohd Sohaimi urged the public to remain vigilant against online investment schemes and to be cautious when receiving unsolicited calls or messages.
“Stay informed about commercial crime tactics by following the Commercial Crime Investigation Department on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok,” he advised.
