18-10-2024 (SINGAPORE) Singaporean authorities have apprehended nearly 300 individuals suspected of involvement in a wide array of scams, including job fraud, friend impersonation, and internet romance schemes. The operation, which concluded on 17 October, has cast a spotlight on the growing menace of online deception in the city-state.
The suspects, ranging in age from a mere 16 to a startling 78 years old, are believed to be connected to over 1,287 separate scam incidents. These cases have reportedly resulted in victims suffering combined losses exceeding $10.3 million, according to a statement released by the Singapore Police Force on 18 October.
The extensive list of alleged fraudulent activities also encompasses investment scams, e-commerce fraud, and fake buyer schemes, highlighting the diverse and evolving nature of online criminal enterprises.
The islandwide operation, conducted between 4 and 17 October, saw officers from the Commercial Affairs Department collaborating with their counterparts from all seven police land divisions. Their concerted efforts led to the arrest of 204 men and 88 women, bringing the total number of suspects to 292.
Authorities are currently investigating the suspects for a range of alleged offences, including cheating, money laundering, and providing payment services without proper licensing. The severity of these charges reflects the government’s commitment to combating financial crimes and protecting its citizens from fraudulent schemes.
If found guilty of cheating, the suspects could face up to a decade behind bars, along with substantial fines. Those convicted of money laundering may be subject to equally harsh penalties, including imprisonment for up to 10 years and fines of up to $500,000, or both. Additionally, individuals found to have operated unlicensed payment service businesses could face fines of up to $125,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or a combination of both.
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