IPOH: Police have arrested 10 people suspected of running a syndicate that offers fake Electronic Fire Extinguisher Inspection System (eFEiS) stickers.
Acting Perak police chief Deputy Comm Zulkafli Sariaat said the suspects, aged 21 to 35, were arrested during four operations in Bagan Datuk and Cheras between Wednesday and Sunday (Jan 1 and 5).
DCP Zulkafli said the operations were conducted after a report was lodged at the Bagan Datuk Commercial Crime Unit on Dec 31.
"The victim had been offered maintenance services for fire extinguishers at his premises for RM100 per unit.
"A check by the Hutan Melintang (fire station) on the equipment found that the eFEiS stickers were fake," he said in a statement on Tuesday (Jan 7).
"Checks also found that the company involved was not appointed and registered with the Fire and Rescue Department to conduct maintenance on fire extinguishers," he added.
DCP Zulkafli said they also seized 89 fire extinguishers, four mobile phones, seven eFEiS stickers, three cars and two fake contractors' certificates.
"Those arrested ran the operations, looking for customers at business premises while offering their 'maintenance services'... and supplying the fake eFEiS stickers.
"Aside from Perak, the syndicate is also believed to have offered its services in Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
"As of now, six reports have been received by victims in Bagan Datuk and Kampar, with reported losses totalling about RM89,000," he added.
DCP Zulkafli said the matter is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating.
"If convicted, those found guilty can be jailed up to 10 years or fined or both.
"We would like to advise all building management and the public who have information about any such services to come forward so that we can take action.
"The people are also advised to be more vigilant with cheating cases because it involves their safety as well as that of others," he added.
