Factory manager cheated of over RM90,000 in ‘used car purchase’

SEREMBAN: A factory manager who wanted to buy a used car supposedly registered in Singapore has been cheated of almost RM92,000 in an online scam here.

State Commercial Crimes Investigation Department chief Supt Aibee Ab Ghani said the 50-year-old victim’s troubles started on Aug 10 when he saw an advertisement on Facebook on used cars supposedly available for sale in the republic.

“The victim then made some queries and one Mr Lee got in touch with him via WhatsApp.

“He was told that the cars came cheap, as the Singaporean owners wanted to dispose of them before they were scrapped.

“The victim was told that the car was available for only RM20,000, and the victim agreed to buy it,” he said.

Negri Sembilan Commercial Crimes Investigations Department chief Supt Aibee Ab GhaniNegri Sembilan Commercial Crimes Investigations Department chief Supt Aibee Ab Ghani

Supt Aibee said the victim was told to transfer the cash online into several bank accounts.

The victim did as told, and when the amount reached the agreed price, he was told that he would need to make more payments, including for Customs duties.

“The victim initially felt apprehensive when asked to pay more for the car, but continued to do so as he did not want to lose the sum he had paid, and in the hope that the car would be delivered to him.

“Only after making the last payment of RM4,560 on Nov 27, the victim finally realised that he had been taken for a ride and decided to lodge a police report,” he said, adding that the victim had by then paid a total of RM91,520.

The case is being probed under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating. The offense carries a jail term of between one and 10 years, whipping and a fine, upon conviction.

Supt Aibee also warned the public to be wary of such advertisements.

He said the police was currently investigating 25 such cases reported nationwide since August involving losses amounting to RM1.5mil.