PADAWAN: A government retiree found herself RM122,000 poorer after falling victim to a supposed ‘misfortune cleaning’ scheme by foreigners.
The incident happened around 6am yesterday (Apr 27) when the victim in her early 60s, was approached by three Chinese women at the Mile 10 farmer’s market.
Acting Padawan police chief DSP Lim Jaw Shyong said that the modus operandi is that the suspects seek the victim’s help to find a traditional medicine practitioner named ‘Akek’.
“The suspects then persuaded the victim to seek treatment together from ‘Akek’ because the victim was said to have bad luck.
“She was lured into a car driven by one of the suspects, who then proceeded to confiscate her gold necklace and bracelet.
“The victim was further coerced into retrieving her valuables from her residence for alleged medical purposes. Succumbing to the pressure, she handed over RM1,200 in cash, 50,000 Japanese Yen, and various jewellery to the suspects,” he said.
After obtaining the victim’s possessions, they handed her a red bag filled with items and cautioned her not to open it for nine days.
The woman realised that she had been cheated when she opened the bag and found only two water bottles and a packet of salt.
Lim added that the woman reported the incident to the police and the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating and dishonestly inducing the delivery of property.
In light of this, the public is urged to exercise caution when approached by unknown individuals discussing shamans or traditional healers, or claiming misfortune.
“If you feel uneasy or suspicious about a stranger’s intentions, inform a family member or someone you trust. Avoid entering vehicles with strangers and refrain from surrendering valuables or cash to unfamiliar individuals,” he said.
Members of the public, who have information regarding the shaman scam syndicate involving Chinese nationals, can contact Padawan Commercial Crime Investigation Division (CCID) chief ASP Pricha Azin at 019-8897640 or Insp Mohd Hisyam Mohd Shah from Padawan CCID Intelligence/Operations at 014-6662855.
