SIBU: A 70-year old construction company director has lost RM222,000 after he was scammed while trying to auction off three antique vases.
Sibu OCPD Asst Comm Azari Miskon the victim came across an advertisement on March 22 offering auction services for antiques.
"The victim subsequently contacted two individuals with non-Malaysian telephone numbers, who offered to auction his three antique vases, worth a total of RM28mil," he said in a statement on Wednesday (April 15).
He said the suspects asked for various payments, including advance fees, auction service charges, documentation and the release of sale proceeds.
The suspects also showed the victim fake receipts and documents to convince the victim that the auction had been conducted.
"The victim made several payments to local bank accounts. He realised he had been cheated when he was asked to make a further payment.
"However, he did not lose his vases" he said.
ACP Azari advised the public to be wary of unverified auction or investment offers, particularly those circulated on social media.
He also urged the public not to make any payments to third-party accounts without prior verification.
Those seeking advice or further information on fraud may contact the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) at 997.
Checks on bank accounts and suspicious telephone numbers may also be done via the Semak Mule website.
