MIRI: A contractor in Miri was cheated into paying RM20,200 to a conman who promised to secure the release of his friend, a China national, who was currently being detained at a prison here.
According to State Commercial Crime Investigation Department Chief Superintendent Mustafa Kamal Gani Abdullah, the 38-year-old victim met the suspect known as “Mr Chong” at an eatery in Miri on January 12 in 2017 to discuss on the release.
“One week after they met, the victim received a call from Mr Chong, requesting him to bank in the amount,” said Supt Mustafa.
A total six transactions were made. Unfortunately, after the transaction process, Mr Chong could no longer be contacted and a police report has been lodged.
In a separate case, a victim of a non-existent loan scheme was reported by a supervisor aged 30, from Bintulu.
Initially, the victim saw an advertisement for the loan on Facebook on March 5.
“He was interested in the offer and asked for a RM13,000 loan,” said Mustafa.
After sending in his personal details, he received a called from a man claiming to be representative of the loan company.
“The victim was asked to pay RM1,500 for processing fee, which he complied,” said Mustafa.
He realised he was being duped after he deposited the cash.
