SINGAPORE police have arrested a 73-year-old Malaysian woman in connection with at least three scams in which victims were deceived by individuals impersonating government officials. Authorities believe the woman acted as a mule, collecting cash and gold bars on behalf of the syndicate.
Police seized S$200 in cash and gold bars valued at approximately S$200,000 from the woman on 24 November.
The Straits Times cited that reports of the scams, which involved impersonations of Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) officials, were received between 8 October and 24 November.
On 24 November, an employee at BullionStar, a gold and silver dealer along New Bridge Road, alerted police to a woman acting suspiciously outside the premises. Officers from the Central Police Division subsequently arrested her.
“Victims were told that their bank accounts had been linked to money laundering activities or that their personal information had been compromised.
“They were instructed to surrender their money and valuables for investigations, often meeting unknown individuals at various locations across Singapore to hand over cash and gold bars,” police said.
“When refunds promised by the scammers were not received, or when the scammers could no longer be contacted, the victims realised they had been defrauded.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the Malaysian woman facilitated these operations by collecting cash and gold from the victims,” the statement added.
Police cautioned the public to remain vigilant, emphasising that government officials will not request money transfers, banking information, or the installation of apps from unofficial sources over the phone. The public is advised to verify any suspicious requests via the ScamShield helpline on 1799.
Those with information on scams can contact the police hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submit tips online at [www.police.gov.sg/i-witness](http://www.police.gov.sg/i-witness). Police assured that all information would be treated confidentially. - November 30, 2025
