SIBU: A 70-something construction company director lost RM222,000 after falling victim to an online antique auction scam involving fake documents and overseas phone contacts.
Sibu police chief ACP Azari Miskon said police received a report on Apr 14 from the complainant after he realised he had been cheated in the transaction.
“Based on initial investigations, the victim came across a Facebook account on Mar 22, advertising antique auction services.
“He then contacted two individuals via WhatsApp using foreign phone numbers, who offered to assist in auctioning his antique vase,” Azari said in his statement
He added that the suspects allegedly requested multiple payments, including advance fees, documentation charges and fees for the release of purported auction proceeds.
“To convince the victim, they also provided receipts and documents believed to be falsified, including proof of overseas auction transactions.
“The victim subsequently made several payments to local bank accounts before realising he had been cheated when he was asked to make further payments,” he added.
Azari advised the public to remain vigilant against online auction and investment schemes, particularly those promoted through social media platforms.
The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating.
He also reminded the public not to make payments to unverified accounts and to use the Semak Mule portal http://ccid.rmp.gov.my/semakmule/ to verify suspicious phone numbers and bank accounts.
Members of the public with information on scams are encouraged to contact the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) at 997 or refer to official Royal Malaysia Police cybercrime channels.
