Police have arrested two local men after they allegedly posed as enforcement officers and attempted to extort RM1,500 from a foreign national in Kampung Koidupan Sugud here early on Friday.
Penampang district police chief Superintendent Sammy Newton said the incident occurred at about 12.10am when the suspects, aged 19 and 28, allegedly approached the victim wearing clothing resembling enforcement agency uniforms.
The pair reportedly demanded to inspect the victim’s identification documents before accusing him of committing an offence for failing to produce his passport.
They then allegedly demanded RM1,500 from the victim, claiming the money could be used to settle the supposed offence.
However, the alleged ruse began to unravel when the victim asked the two men to show their authority cards.
“The suspects suddenly attempted to flee but were detained by villagers before being handed over to police,” Sammy said in a statement.
Police also seized several pieces of clothing resembling enforcement agency uniforms, believed to have been worn by the suspects during the incident.
The case is being investigated under Sections 384 and 170 of the Penal Code for alleged extortion and impersonating a public servant.
Police are reminding members of the public to remain cautious when approached by anyone claiming to be an enforcement officer, particularly if the individual demands money or threatens legal action.
Sammy urged anyone who encounters suspicious behaviour or believes they may have been targeted by a similar scam to contact the police immediately.
