In a troubling case of deception, an 18-year-old woman was arrested on 5 January 2024 for her alleged involvement in a scam targeting an elderly victim. This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of scams in Singapore, particularly those involving impersonation.
The Incident
The police were alerted to the situation after an elderly woman reported losing S$290,000 (US$213,200) to scammers who posed as Chinese officials. They claimed her identity had been misused in China, leading her to believe she was being investigated.
Swift Action by the Police
- Officers from the Anti-Scam Command, Woodlands Police Division, and Police Operations Command Centre initiated a quick investigation.
- Within eight hours of the report, they established the identity of the teenager and arrested her.
- The suspect, a student on a social visit pass, had also previously fallen victim to the same scam.
Manipulated Into Crime
According to the police, the teenager was allegedly manipulated into coming to Singapore under the false pretext of assisting with official investigations. Police spokesperson noted, “She was believed to have been misled about her involvement and intentions.”
Legal Consequences
The teenager is now under investigation for cheating. If convicted, she faces a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years and a fine. The Singapore Police Force (SPF) emphasised their strict stance against scam-related offences.
Public Awareness
In light of this incident, authorities urge the public to remain vigilant. To avoid becoming unintentional accomplices in scams, individuals should:
- Reject any requests to use your bank accounts or mobile lines.
- Report suspicious activities immediately.
For further assistance or information regarding scams, visit scamshield.gov.sg or call the ScamShield Helpline at 1799. Those with info on such crimes can contact the police hotline at 1800-255-0000 or report online at police.gov.sg/i-witness.