A WOMAN in Pahang has fallen victim to a sophisticated phone scam, losing a total of RM230,000 after being misled into believing she was under investigation for money laundering.
Pahang Police Chief Datuk Seri Yahaya Othman said the 31-year-old victim was driven by fear of arrest after a suspect showed her a falsified arrest warrant.
“The incident began on 5 August when the victim received a phone call from an individual impersonating an officer from the Putrajaya Communication Control Centre,” he said in a statement on Friday.
“The call was subsequently transferred to someone claiming to be a police officer and later to an alleged deputy public prosecutor, who accused the victim of being involved in money laundering activities, stating that an arrest warrant had been issued against her.”
The victim was then instructed to report herself via WhatsApp and was coerced into making a series of financial transactions to bank accounts provided by the scammers.
Obeying the instructions, the woman made eight separate money transfers from her savings into various bank accounts, amounting to a total of RM230,000 between 22 and 29 August.
“She eventually lodged a police report at a station in Temerloh after realising she had been deceived,” Yahaya said.
He urged the public to remain vigilant and verify any suspicious calls with the police or relevant government agencies to avoid falling prey to similar scams.
“The public is also reminded to check any bank account numbers or phone numbers received through the website [https://semakmule.rmp.gov.my](https://semakmule.rmp.gov.my) before making any transactions.
“Any information or concerns regarding such cases can be directed to the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) by calling 997 or by visiting any nearby police station,” he added. - September 12, 2025
