Woman Loses RM1.2 Million, Sells RM500,000 Worth of Jewellery After Answering Scam Call

KOTA BHARU: Fear of being prosecuted for alleged involvement in a money laundering case led a single mother, who works as a manager, to lose about RM1.2 million to a phone scam syndicate.

The victim, in her 50s, not only withdrew money from her bank accounts but also sold her jewellery before making payments to individuals impersonating authorities.

Kelantan Police Chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat said the victim was believed to have received a call from a suspect who claimed that she was linked to a criminal breach of trust and money laundering case.

He said the victim, who panicked and became frightened by the allegations, followed the suspect’s instructions, including opening a new account and transferring and withdrawing her money.

“She was so frightened that it took her two months to lodge a report. She did not share what had happened with anyone else.

“In the end, her account was completely drained,” he said at a press conference after officiating the Kelantan Police Contingent Headquarters’ monthly assembly here on Tuesday.

He said the victim also used money from other savings, including withdrawals from her Employees Provident Fund (EPF), and sold jewellery to comply with the suspect’s instructions.

According to him, the victim only lodged a police report after spending two months following the syndicate’s instructions.

“This is the problem. She was not even involved in the case and she knew she had nothing to do with it, but because she was so afraid, she eventually became a victim,” he said.

Mohd Yusoff said police had identified the syndicate involved and further investigations were underway.

Meanwhile, he again reminded the public not to panic if they receive calls from individuals claiming to be from the police, Bank Negara Malaysia or any government agency.

“None of these agencies will call people in this manner. If the police, Bank Negara or any other agency wants to take action, the person concerned will be officially summoned.

“If you are very worried, hang up the phone and contact the relevant agency directly to verify the matter,” he said.

Sinar Harian