JOHOR BARU: Johor records an average of 37 scam cases daily, with online fraud accounting for 90% of reported incidents, according to Johor Police Chief Comm Datuk Ab Rahaman Arsad.
Speaking at the state police monthly assembly on Tuesday (Oct 13), Comm Ab Rahaman revealed that police opened 9,897 investigation papers involving RM212.6mil in losses during the first nine months of 2026.
This represents a 44% increase in cases compared to the 6,861 recorded during the same period in 2025, which saw losses of RM252.5mil.
He noted that scam tactics continue to evolve alongside digital technology, prompting police to intensify public awareness campaigns across social media and other platforms to prevent further victims.
Statewide crime index cases also rose by 4.6% to 4,343 cases between January and September 2026, up from 4,152 in 2025. Serious crime cases grew by 14.48% to 1,123, while property crime recorded a slight 1.55% increase to 3,220 cases.
In response to worsening haze conditions across the state, Comm Ab Rahaman instructed all police personnel on outdoor duty, such as traffic management and patrols, to wear face masks, while exempting unwell officers from field assignments.
Addressing updates on the murder of 16-year-old student Irene Sofiya Mohd Khairool Faisal, who was found dead at a school in Yong Peng on Oct 3, Comm Ab Rahaman stated that investigation papers have been submitted to the state prosecution director's office.
A 16-year-old male suspect remains under remand until Friday, Oct 16, with police citing jealousy and revenge as the primary motives.
