SIBU: A businessman learned the hard way about “too good to be true” promises after losing RM135,000 to a bogus investment scheme.
The victim, in his 40s, was first contacted via WhatsApp on June 18 by a woman claiming to be from Kuala Lumpur, who lured him with an investment in shares known as AAPL that promised lucrative returns.
He was then asked to download a related application before being added into a WhatsApp group, which allegedly displayed profits from the scheme.
Sibu Police chief, ACP Zulkifl Suhaili, said the suspect also assured him that with an initial deposit, he could expect RM42,000 in profit.
“Between September 4 and September 9, the victim transferred RM135,000 via 18 transactions into a local bank account.
“However, when he attempted to withdraw his supposed profit, he was asked to invest more money,” he said.
Realising he had been cheated, the victim lodged a police report, and the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating and dishonestly inducing the delivery of property.
In light of this, Zulkifl reminded the public to be cautious of investment schemes that offer returns which are too good to be true.
They should verify any investment opportunities through Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) at www.bnm.gov.my and BNM Telelink 1-300-88-5465, or the Securities Commission Malaysia www.sc.com.my or 03-6204899, or by using the Investment Checkers app at https://www.com.my/investment-checkers.
For further assistance, the public may also contact the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) at 997 or verify suspicious bank accounts and phone numbers via http://ccid.mp.gov.my/semakmule/.
