Sarawak has recorded a sharp rise in commercial crime cases in the first five months of this year, with total financial losses increasing by RM15.1 million compared to the same period last year.
Latest police data showed losses reaching RM71.1 million as of May 31, 2026, up from RM56 million recorded in 2025. This represents a significant increase of 26.96 per cent, highlighting growing concerns over financial scams and online fraud.
Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohamad Zainal Abdullah said the rise in losses was closely linked to an increase in commercial crime cases, which have now climbed to 2,134 cases, a 41.79 per cent jump compared to 1,505 cases previously. He stressed that the trend reflects the increasingly sophisticated and aggressive tactics used by criminal syndicates.
He added that criminals are now heavily relying on digital platforms and online transactions to deceive victims, making enforcement efforts more challenging. According to him, the RM15.1 million increase is not just a figure on paper but represents the hard-earned money of victims exploited through deception.
However, despite the rise in commercial crimes, overall index crime in Sarawak has shown improvement, dropping by 21 per cent or 431 cases. The total fell from 2,042 cases in 2025 to 1,611 cases this year, which authorities view as a positive sign of effective enforcement and preventive operations.
Property crime also saw a 24 per cent decrease, while violent crime showed a downward trend, although there was a slight increase in rape-related subcategories.
Police also reported improved investigation performance, with the crime clearance rate rising significantly to 71 per cent compared to 37 per cent last year. Authorities say this reflects stronger investigative efficiency and improved identification of suspects.
Despite the progress in overall crime reduction, police have urged the public to remain vigilant against increasingly widespread online scams and fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting victims.
