TikToker, accomplice charged in alleged steamboat restaurant investment fraud

Kuching Court Complex (File Photo)

KUCHING, Nov 30: A TikToker and another individual are facing charges in connection with an alleged investment fraud involving a steamboat restaurant business.

Pui Soon Sen, 46, and Sia Ek Long, 38, pleaded not guilty to charges under Section 420 of the Penal Code, read together with Section 34 of the same Code, related to cheating and dishonestly inducing the delivery of property.

Magistrate Mason Jaro Lenya Barayan released both accused on RM1,000 bail each.

The duo, acting in concert, are accused of deceiving Thomas Jude Chin Joon Khan into making a cash payment of RM5,000 for investing in a steamboat restaurant business in Kuching.

The incident occurred on Oct 28, 2019, at a residence in Taman Bat Gong, Padawan, around 11.30pm.

Investigations revealed that the complainant was induced by the accused, who allegedly tricked him into believing they were legitimate business partners.

The complainant then made the payment to an account registered under the name Liberal Nine Holdings Sdn. Bhd.

Expecting a return on investment, the complainant entered into an agreement with both accused. However, the complainant alleges that promised profits were never received, resulting in a loss of RM5,000.

Prosecuting Officer Inspector Merylene Lindan Andrew Mang handled the case, while the accused were not represented by a lawyer. — DayakDaily