MIRI: A local businessman in his 30s has fallen prey to an elaborate online scam involving the supposed purchase of a luxury Porsche Cayenne.
Miri District police chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu confirmed receiving a report of the fraudulent case yesterday.
Alexson said the victim stumbled upon an enticing advertisement on Facebook for a Porsche Cayenne priced at RM250,000.
Intrigued by the offer, the businessman followed the link to a website named EliteUsahaAuto.com, where he began corresponding with the alleged seller.
The suspect persuaded the victim to make a series of deposit payments, amounting to RM42,900, through eight transactions spread across four different bank accounts.
Initially, the suspect maintained communication, offering excuses to delay delivery.
However, the victim became suspicious when no vehicle was delivered and eventually realised he had been duped, prompting him to file a police report.
He said the case is now under investigation under Section 420 of the Penal Code, which carries penalties of imprisonment for one to 10 years, whipping, and fines upon conviction.
Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and verify the legitimacy of online advertisements, particularly for high-value transactions.
