A 41-year-old woman faced more than emotional heartbreak after falling victim to an elaborate love scam, losing a total of RM217,080 in the process.

The ordeal began last month when the woman met a man through social media. The suspect introduced himself as a Swiss national working as a flight attendant. After just a week of communication, the suspect promised extravagant gifts, including cash, jewelry, a mobile phone, and designer shoes, collectively valued at RM4 million.

District police chief Superintendent Ahmad Zamry Marinsah explained that the lavish promises convinced the victim to trust the suspect.

However, on December 27, the victim was contacted by another individual claiming to be a delivery agent. The "agent" informed her that she needed to pay various advance fees to receive the promised gifts. These fees were purportedly for certificates to prove there was no money laundering involved, as well as import duties, delivery charges, and insurance.

Trusting the scheme, the victim complied and made 48 separate transactions to the suspect's account. When the promised gifts and cash never arrived, she realized something was amiss. The woman lodged a police report on January 6, but by then, she had already lost RM217,080.

"The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating," Superintendent Zamry stated.

He also advised the public to remain vigilant and informed about such scams. "We urge everyone to follow updates from the Commercial Crime Investigation Department's social media platforms to avoid falling victim to these tactics," he added.

Online romance scams continue to prey on unsuspecting individuals, with scammers often luring victims through promises of love and extravagant gifts. Authorities emphasize the importance of exercising caution when dealing with strangers online and being wary of any requests for money.

Source: NST