Police have crippled an online investment scam syndicate operating through call centres following three separate raids around Sitiawan and Lumut on May 8.
Hasbullah Abd Rahman said the operations were carried out by officers and personnel from the Commercial Crime Investigation Division and the Narcotics Criminal Investigation Division of the Royal Malaysia Police at the Manjung district police headquarters.
He said inspections at the premises led to the arrest of 10 Chinese men and three Chinese women aged between 23 and 46, all believed to be involved in non-existent online investment scams.
“Police also seized two vehicles, 44 mobile phones, 11 laptops, two WiFi modems and one premises access card during the operation.
“Initial investigations found that syndicate members used the premises as calling centres to conduct fraudulent online investment schemes,” he said in a statement on Monday.
According to Hasbullah, the syndicate mainly targeted victims from the United States and several European countries by using messaging applications such as Telegram and WhatsApp to approach potential victims.
The group allegedly lured victims by promoting fake investment opportunities through fraudulent websites before persuading them to carry out financial transactions.
Authorities believe the operation was carefully organised and designed to exploit overseas victims through convincing digital communication methods and fabricated investment platforms.
All suspects have been remanded for six days until May 14 to assist investigations under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating and Section 120B of the Penal Code for criminal conspiracy.
Police have urged the public to remain cautious and avoid falling victim to investment schemes promoted on social media or messaging platforms.
Hasbullah advised individuals to verify investment offers with authorities such as Bank Negara Malaysia and Securities Commission Malaysia before committing to any financial scheme.
Members of the public with information related to commercial crimes are encouraged to contact the nearest police station or reach the Manjung district police operations room at 05-688 6222 or via WhatsApp hotline at 017-682 8005.
