SIBU: A company director’s dream of wealth was shattered when, instead of earning more money, he lost RM1 million.
Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mancha Ata said that the ordeal of the victim, in his 30s, began when he came across a money investment advertisement called Arcadia Equity on Facebook in mid-October.
Without hesitation, he clicked on the provided link and was added to a WhatsApp group named SPDR Finance Business College.
“He was then contacted by the suspect, who instructed him to download the AE Online application and register through it,” he said in a statement yesterday (Dec 6).
The victim proceeded to make several money transfers in stages into the bank accounts provided by the suspect, amounting to approximately RM1 million.
“The victim realised he had been scammed when he was asked to make further transactions but was unable to withdraw the returns shown in the application,” he said.
The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code.
Mancha advised the public not to easily trust investment schemes offered on social media and to conduct thorough research before investing.
“Additionally, you are encouraged to check the list of unauthorised or unapproved companies and websites via www.bnm.gov.my or BNM Telelink 1-300-88-5465 (Bank Negara Malaysia) and www.sc.com.my / (03-6204 8999) (Securities Commission Malaysia).
“Please visit the official social media accounts of the Commercial Crime Investigation Department @JSJKPDRM and @CyberCrimeAlertRMP on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest information and modus operandi of scams,” he said.
