Two Singaporean men, Wayne Soh You Chen, 27, and Brian Sie Eng Fa, 32, have been charged in Singapore with being part of a Cambodia-based scam syndicate. The duo was accused of facilitating cheating activities that affected local victims, and their arrests follow a significant police operation.
The Scam Syndicate
The criminal group, believed to have operated from a call centre in Phnom Penh, was involved in government official impersonation scams. Reports estimate the syndicate is linked to over 438 cases, resulting in total losses exceeding S$41 million (approximately US$31.6 million).
Operation and Arrests
- Disruption of Syndicate: A joint operation between the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and the Cambodian National Police took place on 9 September 2024.
- Deportation: Soh was deported from Cambodia, while Sie was arrested in Khon Kaen, Thailand, by the Royal Thai Police.
- Collaborative Efforts: The SPF expressed gratitude towards the Thai and Cambodian authorities for their assistance in this case.
Legal Proceedings
Upon their return to Singapore on 16 November 2024, both men were arrested. They face charges under the Organised Crime Act for activities aimed at facilitating cheating. If convicted, they could face a jail term of up to five years and/or a fine of up to S$100,000.
Ongoing Investigations
Additionally, two others, Ng Wei Kang and Christy Neo Wei En, believed to be connected to the syndicate leader, are currently in custody as investigations continue. The alleged leader, Ng Wei Liang, remains at large along with 31 other suspects.
The SPF has appealed to the public for any information regarding the remaining suspects. Reports can be made anonymously via SPF’s hotline at 1800 255 0000 or online. All submissions will be handled with strict confidentiality.