BAU: A local man lost RM200 after being extorted by an individual posing as a sex worker through WhatsApp following contact via a Facebook advertisement.
Bau police chief Supt Mohd Haide A. Rahman said the incident occurred at about 9.54pm on Tuesday (Jun 23).
He said the victim had browsed Facebook and came across an advertisement offering sexual services by an individual using the name “Safiqah”.
The victim later contacted the suspect through WhatsApp but decided to cancel the arrangement after finding the charges too expensive.
“The suspect then threatened to circulate photographs of the victim obtained from Facebook, claiming he had engaged sexual services.
“Fearing the threat, the victim transferred RM200 to a local bank account,” he said.
Mohd Haide said no distribution of the victim’s photographs had been reported so far.
He said the case is being investigated under Section 384 of the Penal Code for extortion.
Police are tracking down the suspect and gathering further information on the telephone number and bank account used in the crime.
Mohd Haide advised the public to remain vigilant when dealing with unknown individuals on social media, particularly those offering suspicious services.
He also reminded the public not to make payments to unauthorised parties and to lodge a police report immediately if they become victims of extortion or scams.
