A 67-YEAR-OLD man in Batu Pahat has fallen victim to a sophisticated scam, losing RM230,000 after being deceived by individuals impersonating police officers.
Authorities said the incident highlights the growing risks posed by fraudsters targeting vulnerable individuals.
According to Batu Pahat District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Shahrulanuar Mushaddat Abdullah Sani, the victim received a phone call on 21 November from a man claiming to be a police officer.
The caller warned that the elderly man was listed for arrest in connection with a separate scam investigation.
“The suspect instructed the victim to provide his bank account details and transfer funds into an account supplied by the fraudster, purportedly as part of an investigation conducted by the National Audit Department,” Shahrulanuar explained.
The victim, believing the instructions to be legitimate, transferred money in stages from 3 December onwards, ultimately losing a total of RM230,000. When further payment requests were made, the man grew suspicious and realised he had been defrauded.
He subsequently lodged a report at the Batu Pahat District Police Headquarters. “Police are continuing investigations, and the case is being probed under Section 420 of the Penal Code,” Shahrulanuar said.
Authorities have urged the public to verify the identity of unknown callers and exercise caution to avoid falling prey to similar scams, particularly those targeting the elderly.
“This case serves as a reminder to remain vigilant and not respond to unsolicited calls demanding money or personal banking information,” he added. - December 12, 2025
