KUCHING, June 5: A local man in his late 30s from Bintulu has fallen victim to a non-existent investment scam, losing approximately RM300,000 in an online stock trading scheme.
Sarawak Commissioner of Police Dato Mancha Ata disclosed that the victim, a private company manager based in Bintulu, lodged a police report after realising he had been duped by an individual posing as a stock investment agent.
The scam began in mid-May 2025 when the victim was approached by a friend who introduced him to a supposed investment opportunity in stock trading.
“Intrigued by the offer, the victim was told to contact an unknown individual — now identified as the main suspect — to proceed with the investment.
“The suspect, who communicated with the victim via WhatsApp, allegedly promised high returns and quick profits. Enticed by the lucrative offer, the victim proceeded to make several online transactions, transferring a total of around RM300,000 into a bank account provided by the suspect,” he said in a statement today.
The fraud only came to light when the suspect began requesting additional payments, and the victim realised that no investment returns were forthcoming. It was at this point that he filed a police report.
Mancha reminded the public to remain vigilant and verify any investment schemes with proper financial authorities before committing funds.