A FRUIT and grocery trader lost RM500,639 after falling victim to an elaborate part-time job scam that originated from a Facebook message promising lucrative online income.
According to Kuala Terengganu District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Azli Mohd Noor, the 38-year-old victim, who also trades in cattle, was contacted on 14 May by an individual known to him on Facebook offering a side income opportunity.
“Interested by the proposal, the victim was informed about tasks involving purchases through a so-called prominent shopping application, accessed via a provided link,” Azli said.
The victim was instructed to download the application and, upon following through, began receiving directions from a purported customer service representative. Initially, the scheme appeared legitimate as the victim received the promised returns after completing early assignments.
However, Azli noted that the situation soon changed. “For subsequent tasks, the victim was told to complete several more purchases before receiving commission. Despite complying, no payments were made.”
Realising he had likely been defrauded, the victim lodged a police report at the Kuala Terengganu Police Station at approximately 2.29pm on Tuesday.
Azli said the victim used personal savings, credit cards, and borrowed funds from acquaintances to make a total of 38 transactions into 22 different bank accounts.
The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating. - July 10, 2025
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