Manager duped into paying RM74,000 for non-existent power stations

MIRI: A manager lost RM74,000 after being deceived into purchasing nine non-existent portable power stations from an alleged supplier.

Miri police chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu confirmed that they received a police report about the incident from the victim on June 8.

The victim, a man in his 20s, had received a phone call from an unknown person claiming to be from the Miri Rural Water Supply Department, who offered a project tender for the maintenance of government vehicles.

“Aside from that, the victim was introduced by the same suspect to a supplier of portable power stations.

“Believing the suspect, the victim transferred RM74,000 into a third-party account through four transactions for the purchase of nine portable power stations,” he said.

The scam became apparent when the suspect could no longer be contacted and the victim’s number was blocked.

ACP Alexson added that the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating and dishonestly inducing the delivery of property.

In light of this, the public are advised to remain vigilant and avoid disclosing any financial details to unknown callers.

“Be cautious and always take precautions when engaging in online transactions, especially if the caller claims to be a friend, acquaintance, courier delivery, law enforcement, or court representative.”