Over 200 people investigated for suspected roles in scams in Singapore involving more than RM19.20mil in losses
Those arrested were believed to be involved in more than 980 scam cases of different types. -- ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN
SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/ANN): More than 200 people are being investigated for their suspected roles in scams involving over S$5.84 million (RM19.22 million) in losses, following a two-week police operation.
They are suspected of being scammers or money mules in more than 980 cases, including investment, job, e-commerce, friend or government official impersonation and rental scams.
The suspects comprise 83 women and 149 men, aged between 17 and 77. The islandwide operation took place between May 23 and June 5, said the police in a statement on June 6.
Scams have been on the rise in Singapore, with the number of reported cases increasing yearly since 2019. In 2024, there were 51,501 reported cases of scams involving more than $1.1 billion in losses – the first time in the Republic that over a billion dollars was lost to scammers in a year.
The suspects in the latest operation are being investigated for the alleged offences of cheating, money laundering or providing payment services without a licence.
If found guilty of cheating, offenders may face up to 10 years in jail and a fine. Those convicted of money laundering may be jailed for up to 10 years, fined up to $500,000, or both.
Anyone found guilty of providing payment services without a licence could be jailed for up to three years, fined up to S$125,000, or both.
For more information on scams, visit www.scamshield.gov.sg or call the ScamShield helpline on 1799.
Those with information on scams may call the police hotline on 1800-255-0000 or submit information online at www.police.gov.sg/iwitness
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