MIRI: A retired offshore operation engineer was left RM200,000 poorer after he was misled into believing that he was involved in drug trafficking and money laundering.
The incident unfolded on Aug 17 when the victim in his late 60s, received a phone call that would turn his life upside down.
Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohd Azman Ahmad Sapri in a statement, said the caller identified himself as ‘Datuk ACP Fikri Mokhtar’.
“The self-proclaimed ‘Datuk’ proceeded to level serious accusations against the victim, implicating him in criminal activities related to drug trafficking and money laundering.
“He also accused the victim of pocketing a staggering RM210,000 in commission from these illicit endeavours,” he said.
As the weight of the accusations settled in, the victim’s emotions spiralled into a whirlwind of panic, anxiety, and fear.
Mohd Azman said the victim was then instructed to transfer all of his money into a third-party bank account, allegedly designated for an audit conducted by Bank Negara and the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA) and meant to determine the legality of the victim’s money.
The ‘Datuk’ also warned the victim to keep the entire ordeal a closely guarded secret, including not disclosing any details to family members or acquaintances.
“Fearing the worst and desperate to regain his reputation, the victim adhered to the imposter’s instructions.
“From mid-August until the end of the month, the victim transferred RM200,000 into five bank accounts via 10 transactions,” he said.
However, the truth eventually came to light when the victim realised that he had been cheated after confiding in his wife on the matter.
Mohd Azman said the victim came forward and report the incident to the police on Aug 30.
The public are advised not to entertain unknown phone calls and immediately notify their partners, friends, or family members should they receive such phone calls, as well as to check with the police, banks, or related agencies for confirmation.
In addition, he said the public should not panic or worry and be afraid of any allegations made against them if they have not done anything wrong.
He added that they should also never provide their banking information to any unknown individuals or parties.
