KUCHING: Kuching police are investigating a case involving an online love scam that caused a local woman, aged 64, to lose over RM1.2 million to a syndicate operating through social messaging platforms.
Kuching Acting Police Chief, Superintendent Merbin Lisa said the victim first became acquainted with a man who introduced himself as Zhao Yong via WhatsApp in December 2024.
Throughout their communication, another individual claiming to be a lawyer named Hai Na Bai Chuan contacted the woman, allegedly representing Zhao Yong to assist in delivering a sum of money as a gift.
She was then introduced to a supposed bank manager named Kamarul Ranizu, who was said to be handling the transaction.
Believing the story, Merbin said the victim proceeded to borrow money from relatives, sold her car, and took loans from licensed moneylenders to make repeated payments, supposedly to cover taxes and other charges.
“From December 2024 to July 2025, the victim made 25 transactions into 18 different bank accounts, amounting to a total loss of RM1,213,742,” said Supt Merbin.
He said this case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating, which carries a penalty of imprisonment between one to ten years, whipping, and a possible fine upon conviction.
Merbin added that a total of eight similar cases have been reported and investigated by Kuching’s Commercial Crime Investigation Division between January 1 and July 31, 2025.
These cases collectively amount to losses exceeding RM1.32 million, including the latest report.
“We urge the public to be extra cautious when dealing with individuals on social media whom they do not personally know. Online scams are preventable if individuals are equipped with knowledge and remain vigilant,” he advised.
By Connie Chieng