SHAH ALAM: A man accused of defrauding two victims of RM6 million by promising a non-existent highway construction project was charged today at the Shah Alam Sessions Court.
Selangor police chief Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said that the state's commercial crime department received two reports from Kajang and Ampang, both involving a total loss of RM6 million.
"The suspect's modus operandi involved convincing his victims to pay a 'commitment fee' ranging from RM500,000 to RM5 million for a supposed highway construction project up north, the Northern Express Alternative Road (NEAR)," he said.
He also said that the suspect allegedly used a fake letter of acceptance from a relevant ministry to persuade the victims that the project was legitimate.
Hussein said enticed by this false assurance, the victims made payments, believing they were securing contracts for a genuine highway project.
"Following the victims' reports, two investigation papers were opened under Section 420 of the Penal Code, which covers fraud.
"The suspect was charged under Section 420 for committing fraud at the Shah Alam Sessions Court this morning," he added.
Hussein also urged the public to exercise caution when approached with offers of project deals, online investment schemes, or business tenders, as they could be scams.
He advised verifying the authenticity of such projects and investments with the relevant agencies before making any financial commitments.
For inquiries or suspicions regarding similar fraudulent schemes, the public is encouraged to contact their nearest police station or use the police website/hotline to avoid falling victim to such scams.