A FACTORY analysis manager in Penang has lost RM300,000 after falling victim to a romance scam perpetrated by a fraudster claiming to be an American technology entrepreneur.
The 45-year-old woman was first contacted via Facebook in late 2024 by a man who introduced himself as “Richard Ming Li”, purportedly from the United States.
According to Deputy Penang Police Chief Datuk Mohd Alwi Zainal Abidin, the suspect claimed he was an IT businessman operating in a northern Malaysian state.
“She began an online relationship with the individual via WhatsApp from November 2024,” he said on Friday.
“A month later, the suspect alleged that his bank account had been frozen and requested financial assistance from the victim to cover shipment costs for his business stock.”
He added, “The suspect promised to repay the money, with an additional amount as a gesture of appreciation.”
Entangled in the emotional manipulation of the online romance, the woman went on to make 16 transactions totalling RM300,000 over three days – from 12 to 14 December 2024 – to five separate local bank accounts.
The scam began to unravel when the suspect allegedly sent a tampered photo of his passport while requesting more funds, claiming he intended to travel to Malaysia to meet her.
Realising she had been deceived, the woman lodged a police report at the Barat Daya District Police Headquarters on Thursday. The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating.
Mohd Alwi issued a reminder to the public to remain vigilant about online relationships and to be wary of manipulation techniques used by cybercrime syndicates.
“Love scams not only cause substantial financial loss but also lead to deep emotional trauma and long-lasting psychological distress,” he said.
He advised individuals not to share personal or financial information with online acquaintances, regardless of how friendly or romantic they may appear. “Make use of tools such as reverse image search to verify their identities.”
He also emphasised the need for collective awareness in tackling online fraud. “Everyone has a role to play in spreading awareness about commercial crime so we can build a safer, scam-free community.” - June 27, 2025
