KOTA KINABALU: More than RM4.3mil was lost to 54 online scam cases in Sandakan district from January to April.
A total of 170 online scam cases were reported in the district last year, involving losses amounting to RM23.06mil.
Sandakan OCPD Asst Comm Ahsmon Bajah said the victims came from various walks of life, including professionals, business owners and retirees.
"Most victims were aged between 31 and 50, and 61.11% were men," he said in a statement on Friday (May 2).
He reminded the public to stay alert and avoid becoming mule account holders by handing over their bank details to third parties.
“If convicted, those involved can be investigated under Section 424 of the Penal Code, which carries a penalty of between RM10,000 and RM100,000 in fines, or a jail term of one to seven years, or both,” he said.
Police have pledged to continue public education efforts to combat scam cases.
