By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 2: A 64-year-old woman in Kuching lost over RM1.2 million to a love scam.
According to acting Kuching District Police Chief Supt Merbin Lisa, in December 2024, the victim became acquainted with a man who introduced himself as ‘Zhao Yong’ through the WhatsApp application using the number +852 5747 3477.
During the course of their acquaintance, the victim was contacted by an individual claiming to be a lawyer named Hai Na Bai Chuan, representing the suspect in handling a cash gift the suspect intended to send to the victim.
The victim was also introduced to a person claiming to be a bank manager named Kamarul Ranizu to manage the money transfer.
Trusting the suspect’s promises, the victim began borrowing money from relatives, selling her car, and even taking loans from licensed moneylenders to make the required payments.
“From December 2024 to July 2025, the victim made 25 transactions into 18 different bank accounts, supposedly to cover various taxes and other charges.
“She later realised she had been deceived, suffering a loss of RM1,213,742 to the scam syndicate,” he said in a statement.
The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating and dishonestly inducing the delivery of property, which carries a penalty of imprisonment for not less than one year and not more than ten years, whipping, and a possible fine upon conviction.
The police advised the public to be more cautious when dealing with unknown individuals on social media. The public is also reminded that online scams are a form of commercial crime that can be prevented if individuals stay informed and vigilant, contributing to a safer, scam-free community. — DayakDaily
