ANN/THE STRAITS TIMES – While many scammers are adopting artificial intelligence to carry out their crimes, three men in Tawau, Sabah, opted for a more “traditional” method – pukau, or hypnosis – to make off with a victim’s money.
The incident took place at a 24-hour convenience store on Jalan Haji Karim in Fajar, according to police.
District police chief Jasmin Hussin said in a statement that authorities are now hunting for a suspect.
“Initial investigations suggest the suspect used hypnosis or mind control techniques to manipulate the victim before fleeing with about MYR30,000,” said Assistant Commissioner Jasmin, adding that the case is being investigated under Section 379 of the Penal Code for theft.
Police have released two images of the suspect, who is pictured wearing a light blue shirt, long pants, a black songkok with yellow stripes, glasses and black sandals.
“We urge anyone who recognises the suspect or his attire to come forward and assist in the investigation,” ACP Jasmin added.
The case gained attention after the victim’s child shared the story on social media, claiming that his father had been hypnotised by three individuals, including the suspect seen in the released images. The identities of the other two accomplices remain unknown.
