Operation uncovers over 1,200 scam cases involving job, e-commerce, and love scams.
Singapore’s police are investigating 288 individuals, including 189 men and 99 women aged 16 to 76, for their suspected involvement in over 1,200 scam cases that led to losses exceeding $6.54 million. This follows a two-week operation conducted from October 31 to November 14 by officers from the Commercial Affairs Department and the seven land divisions of the Singapore Police Force.
The suspects are believed to have played roles as scammers or money mules in a variety of scams, including job scams, e-commerce scams, friend impersonation scams, investment scams, internet love scams, and fake buyer scams. They are under investigation for cheating, money laundering, or providing payment services without a license. Convictions for cheating or money laundering could result in prison terms of up to 10 years, fines, or both, while illegal payment services could lead to fines or imprisonment of up to three years.
The number of scam cases in Singapore has surged, with victims losing $385.6 million in the first half of 2024 alone. The police have reiterated their commitment to taking strict action against those involved in scams and have advised the public to reject requests to use their bank accounts or mobile lines for criminal activities.
