SIBU: An insurance agent lost RM10,700 in a parcel scam after she believed that it was a gift from a man she got to know over the phone.
Sibu OCPD ACP Stanley Jonathan Ringgit said at about 10.15pm on Monday, the victim, 42, was at her home in Jalan Perpati here when she received a call from a man who identified himself as Steven Lee.
Lee told her that he was from China but staying in the US.
“Throughout their conversation, both told each other of their job and their life. Then Lee told her that he was interested to invest in Malaysia and would like to share the commission from the business venture if she could help him in his pursuit,” ACP Stanley said.
On Feb 2, Lee told the victim that he would like to send her a gift.
ACP Stanley said on the same day, the victim received a call from one Mary Tan from a courier company who informed her that a parcel addressed to her had arrived at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
“On Feb 4, the victim, as requested, made four transfers totalling RM10,700 to an account number provided by the scammer. The money, she was told, was to pay for customs duty.
“However after making the payment, Mary pestered her to make more transfers.
“The victim was told to confirm with Lee on the extra payment. When she called Lee, she was told that he would pay her back when he arrived in Malaysia,” said ACP Stanley.
The victim felt that something was amiss and realising that she had been conned, lodged a police report.
The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating.
