SIBU: A housewife in her 60s has fallen victim to a fraudulent online investment scheme, losing approximately RM447,300.

Sibu OCPD Asst Comm Zulkipli Suhaili said his department received a complaint from the woman regarding the scam on May 21.

According to ACP Zulkipli, the victim first connected with an individual through Facebook on Jan 11. She was subsequently introduced to another suspect via WhatsApp. The second suspect allegedly offered her an investment opportunity in a stock trading scheme and added her to a WhatsApp group.

Enticed by the promise of high returns from other supposed investors, the victim agreed to invest. She was instructed to make payments to local bank accounts and was led to believe that her returns were being tracked through an application.

From April 16 to May 20, the victim made 33 transfers totalling RM447,300 into five local bank accounts.

“When she attempted to withdraw the RM800,000 that she believed she had earned, she was informed that the investment was still ongoing and that additional capital was required. It was only then that she realised she had been scammed,” ACP Zulkipli said.

The police have opened an investigation under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating.

He urged the public to exercise caution regarding offers that promise high or guaranteed returns.

“We advise the public to verify investment schemes and companies through official channels such as Bank Negara Malaysia at www.bnm.gov.my or the Securities Commission Malaysia at www.sc.com.my,” he said.