An elderly retired woman fell victim to a Macau Scam syndicate that impersonated Ministry of Health and police personnel, resulting in a loss of RM1.9 million.

According to a statement issued by the Southwest District Police Headquarters (IPD Barat Daya) following the incident, the police have apprehended a 31-year-old man suspected of serving as an account mule in connection with the fraudulent activities that targeted a 67-year-old victim.

The syndicate contacted the woman via telephone, falsely claiming that she had provided inaccurate information related to Covid-19. Subsequently, the call was allegedly transferred to the Sabah State Police Headquarters (IPK Sabah) as part of an accusation against her for involvement in a criminal activity.

Out of fear of being arrested as per the syndicate's instructions, the victim executed 24 money transfers to various separate accounts, totaling RM1.9 million.

The case is currently being probed under Section 420 of the Penal Code.

The police strongly urge the public to exercise caution and not fall prey to the deceptive tactics employed by fraud syndicates operating on social media, fraudulent loan schemes, overseas job offers, and similar scams.

To enhance security, the police recommend that individuals verify account numbers received via the following link: https://ccid.rmp.gov.my/semakmule or by downloading the Mule CCID Check application from the Google Play Store.

Source: FMT