SINGAPORE (ANN/THE STRAITS TIMES) – Five Malaysian men are set to face charges in Singapore over alleged involvement in a transnational scam operation. In a joint operation, the Singapore Commercial Affairs Department (CAD) and the Johor Commercial Crime Investigation Department apprehended a transnational scam syndicate.
The suspects, aged 19 to 36, were arrested in Johor on January 16 and extradited to Singapore on January 23.
The syndicate, accused of orchestrating fake friend call scams, targeting Singaporeans, has allegedly amassed losses exceeding USD1.4 million from over 500 reported incidents since their operation began in June 2023.
Fake friend call scams involve scammers contacting victims through text messages or phone calls, pretending to be someone they know, and afterwards asking for financial help.
From January to November 2023, more than 6,300 victims fell prey to fake friend call scams, with total losses of at least USD21.1 million.
The men will be charged with engaging in a conspiracy to cheat and, if found guilty, may each face a jail term of up to 10 years and a fine.
CAD director David Chew said the police have been working closely with their Malaysian counterparts to detect and cripple such transnational syndicates.
“We will continue to take tough action against individuals who perpetuate scams even if they are based overseas,” he added.
The police advise the public to be wary of unusual phone calls or messages from “friends” who ask for financial assistance.
