Dr Wang’ cons pensioner of RM160,000 life savings in love scam

MIRI: A retiree lost RM160,000 of her savings in a love scam after falling for a supposed doctor she met online.

The unfortunate incident occurred in early April when the woman, in her early 70s, met a man named ‘Dr Wang Muyang’ on the messaging app Line.

Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mancha Ata said the woman formed an emotional connection with the suspect after several back-and-forth messaging.

Later, ‘Dr Wang’ expressed his desire to send her gifts as a token of introduction.

“A week later, the victim received a call from alleged Customs officials informing her there was a parcel in her name, which contained prohibited items including cash in USD currency.

“In order to resolve the case, the victim was instructed to make a payment to release the parcel.

“Driven by panic, the woman made a series of payments from late April until end of July. She had transferred RM160,000 into four different bank accounts via nine transactions,” he said.

The truth came to light when she confided in her children after realising she had been cheated.

Mancha said the woman lodged a police report on Tuesday (July 30) and the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating and dishonestly inducing the delivery of property.

The police chief advised the public to exercise caution and avoid placing trust in newly acquainted individuals, especially those requesting financial assistance.