MIRI: A local woman lost RM485,832 after falling victim to a fraudulent online investment scheme that promised quick returns.
Miri OCPD Asst Comm Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah said the 48-year-old victim lodged a police report on Wednesday (April 22) after realising she had been duped.
He said the victim came across an advertisement for the scheme on Instagram and contacted an individual identified as ‘Han Zhi Hai’ via an international phone number.
“The victim was promised high returns within a short period and proceeded to make 14 transfers to 12 different bank accounts, amounting to RM485,832, as instructed by the suspect,” he said in a statement.
Mohd Farhan said the victim grew suspicious after failing to receive the promised profits and was repeatedly given excuses, leading her to realise she had been scammed.
The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating, which carries a jail term of between one and 10 years, as well as whipping and a fine, upon conviction. – Bernama
