(Bandar Seri Begawan, 22nd) The Royal Brunei Police Force successfully arrested a suspect yesterday morning, believed to be involved in a syndicate impersonating public officials. This operation was carried out by the Cyber Crime Investigation Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department, in collaboration with the Royal Brunei Police Headquarters.
This operation was initiated based on tips from the public. The suspect is a 23-year-old foreign national who was arrested on suspicion of impersonating a government official to commit fraud. Investigation revealed that he directly collected money from victims, who had previously been threatened and manipulated by other syndicate members over the phone.
During the operation, multiple electronic devices—including smartphones and tablets—as well as a car were confiscated to assist in further investigation.
The case is currently being investigated under the Penal Code (Chapter 22) and the Computer Misuse Act (Chapter 194).
The authorities emphasized that impersonating law enforcement officials and bank staff to deceive the public is a serious offense. Anyone involved in such activities, including "impersonators" or "money mule" account holders, will face severe legal consequences without exception.
The authorities have reported a recent surge in cases related to online scams, impersonation, or relevant offenses, which is a cause for concern. In light of this, the public is urged to remain vigilant, especially against individuals impersonating government officials or agencies.
The authorities remind that demands for money or sensitive personal information by phone or through informal meetings should never be trusted. The public is also reminded not to participate in any form of fraudulent activity under any circumstances.
This operation was initiated based on tips from the public. The suspect is a 23-year-old foreign national who was arrested on suspicion of impersonating a government official to commit fraud. Investigation revealed that he directly collected money from victims, who had previously been threatened and manipulated by other syndicate members over the phone.
During the operation, multiple electronic devices—including smartphones and tablets—as well as a car were confiscated to assist in further investigation.
The case is currently being investigated under the Penal Code (Chapter 22) and the Computer Misuse Act (Chapter 194).
The authorities have reported a recent surge in cases related to online scams, impersonation, or relevant offenses, which is a cause for concern. In light of this, the public is urged to remain vigilant, especially against individuals impersonating government officials or agencies.
The authorities remind that demands for money or sensitive personal information by phone or through informal meetings should never be trusted. The public is also reminded not to participate in any form of fraudulent activity under any circumstances.