KUALA LUMPUR: A 49-year-old businessman has lost almost RM180,000 in an online scam related to the purchase of motorcycles and special registration plates.
Seremban police chief Asst Comm Mohamad Hatta Che Din said the victim had come across an advertisement on Facebook for the sale of foreign-made motorcycles with special plates.
"The victim then got in contact with a stranger via WhatsApp and placed an order for seven bikes with special number plates. He was then instructed to bank RM179,375 into several bank accounts," he said in a statement.
ACP Mohamad Hatta said the victim transferred the cash into the bank accounts via several transactions between May 24 and 28. The victim only realised he had been duped when the motorcycles were not delivered as promised. He lodged a report on June 1.
The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating. The offence carries a jail term of between one and 10 years, whipping, and a fine upon conviction.
ACP Mohamad Hatta advised the public to exercise caution when offered products online at unusually low prices.
"They should also be extra careful when dealing with unidentified persons," he said. He urged the public to always check with the police first.
The public can call the CCID Scam Response Centre at 03-2610 1559 or 03-2610 1599 for assistance.
