SINGAPORE — Five Malaysian men are expected to be arraigned in court on Wednesday (Jan 24) for their alleged involvement in a fake friend phone scam operation targeting Singaporeans.
As reported by The Straits Times, a joint effort by the Commerce Authority of Singapore (CAD) and the Royal Malaysian Police Johor Commercial Crime Investigation Department led to the bust of a cross-border fraud syndicate.
The men, aged between 19 and 36, were arrested on January 16 during raids on two apartment buildings in Johor. They were then extradited to Singapore on Tuesday.
According to preliminary investigation, this syndicate began its fraudulent operations in June 2023 and may be linked to over 500 fraud reports resulting in losses of over $1.4 million.
$21.1 million lost in fake friend phone scam
In a fake friend phone scam, the scammer typically contacts the victim via text message or phone call, pretending to be someone the victim knows and asking for financial help.
The Straits Times reported that more than 6,300 people fell victim to these scams between January and November 2023, resulting in total losses of at least $21.1 million.
The Malaysian nationals accused are expected to be charged with participating in a fraud conspiracy. If convicted, each could face up to 10 years in prison and a fine.
According to a report in The Straits Times, CAD Director-General David Chew highlighted the close collaboration between Singapore and Malaysian authorities in uncovering and destroying cross-border fraud syndicates. He also reiterated his determination to take tough action against fraudsters, even if they are operating from abroad.
Police are warning people to be wary of unexpected calls or messages from “friends” asking for financial assistance. The public is also encouraged to check communications for potential signs of fraud and for more information through official sources such as www.scamalert.sg or by contacting the Anti-Scam Helpline at 1800-772-6688. We recommend checking it out.
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