In a significant crackdown on international scam activities, two Singaporean men have been arrested after being deported from Thailand and Cambodia. Both aged 44, they are believed to be part of a broader conspiracy involving transnational scam operations that targeted unsuspecting Singaporeans.
Arrests Following International Cooperation
According to the Singapore Police Force (SPF), Ong Kwang Wee was apprehended by the Royal Thai Police during a raid in Bangkok. He was suspected of involvement in a scam syndicate operating from Myanmar, where it had been executing scams impersonating government officials.
Preliminary investigations revealed Ong had travelled to Myanmar, engaging in administrative roles at the scam centre before fleeing to Thailand following a police raid. He reportedly surrendered his personal bank account for criminal syndicates to channel illicit funds.
- Charges Against Ong: Abetment to commit unauthorised access to computer material. He faces up to two years in jail or a fine, with his next court appearance set for 20 November 2024.
Second Arrest in Cambodia
The second man, Seah Jianhao, was arrested in Krong Bavet, Cambodia. Allegedly acting as a translator for the syndicate, his Singaporean bank accounts were purportedly used to receive funds from various scam activities.
- Charges Against Seah: Abetment by conspiracy to cheat and possession of property connected to criminal conduct. If convicted, he faces up to three years in prison, fines, or both.
Rise in Scam Cases
The recent arrests highlight a concerning trend in Singapore, where cases of government official impersonation scams have surged dramatically. Data from the police indicates that such cases rose by 199.2 per cent in the first half of 2025 compared to the previous year, with losses mounting to approximately S$126.5 million.
International Collaboration
Director of the Commercial Affairs Department, David Chew, emphasised the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational scams. The ongoing partnership with the Royal Thai Police and Cambodian authorities demonstrates a concerted effort to tackle these evolving criminal tactics.
These cases serve as a stark reminder to the community about the dangers of scams and the necessity of vigilance in safeguarding personal information.