Police Bust Online Scam Syndicate, Arrest 57 Individuals

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 28 (Bernama) -- Police crippled an online scam syndicate after raiding eight call centres and arresting 57 individuals, including five Malaysians, during separate operations around the federal capital between Nov 10 and 14.

Kuala Lumpur Police Chief Datuk Fadil Marsus said the raids were conducted by the Kuala Lumpur Commercial Crime Investigation Department, with support from district- and contingent-level teams, at several residential units that served as operational centres for the syndicate.

"All arrested, including 52 foreign nationals, are aged between 21 and 45. They worked for the syndicate and were involved in various fraudulent activities, including fake job offer scams and non-existent cryptocurrency investment schemes," he said in a statement today.

Preliminary investigations found that the syndicate targeted victims in Malaysia and abroad.

He said that those arrested were charged in court under Section 120B(2) of the Penal Code for conspiracy related to online fraud, as well as under the Immigration Act of 1959/63 for offences concerning travel documents involving foreign nationals.

He said police will intensify operations to eradicate online fraud syndicates and advised the public to remain vigilant and obtain verification from the authorities before making any financial transactions.

He urged those with information on any crime or suspicious activities to contact the Kuala Lumpur Police Hotline at 03-21159999 or any police station.

-- BERNAMA