KUALA LUMPUR: They stop people to ask for directions, offer traditional treatment or sell goods at low prices.
If someone stops to talk to them, they use persistent persuasion, pressure or emotional manipulation to make the victims hand over cash or jewellery.
These were among the common modus operandi of “pukau” scammers investigated by the Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) last year.
“In some cases, the scammers may claim the victim’s money or valuables are ‘problematic’ and need to be ‘cleansed’,” said Comm Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa (pic).
The Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) director said suspects typically approach victims at random in public places such as markets, banking premises and parking areas.
“They will usually target individuals who are alone and appear vulnerable,” he said.
The syndicates usually operate in groups and would quickly flee after obtaining the victim’s belongings, he added.
He noted that while the term “pukau” is commonly used by the public, police investigations have found that most of these cases do not involve mystical elements.
“Based on reported cases, these scams are carried out using communication techniques, psychological pressure and well-planned acting.
“They have no supernatural powers,” he said.
Comm Rusdi explained that such cases are typically investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating and dishonestly inducing the delivery of property.
“I want to stress that ‘pukau’ scams refer to acts of deception, trickery and psychological manipulation that lead victims to voluntarily surrender their valuables,” he said.
He added that police will continue to investigate all reports, even when victims claim they were “hypnotised”.
“Our actions include recording detailed statements from victims and witnesses, obtaining closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage from the scene, and identifying the vehicles and individuals involved.
“We will also trace financial transactions if bank accounts are involved,” he said.
He emphasised that information provided by victims is crucial in investigations.
“Investigating officers will gather details like the suspects’ physical appearance, manner of speech, time and location of the incident, as well as other physical and digital evidence.
“Once suspects are identified, arrests and prosecution will be carried out,” he said.
