In a statement today, Seberang Perai Utara district police chief Noorzainy Mohd Noor said the 51-year-old victim started getting to know the man, believed to be part of a love scam syndicate, last August.
“They became close and started communicating via WhatsApp, with the suspect offering to collaborate with the victim in a business venture which would see them reap US$25 million,” he said, adding that as part of the deal, he asked her to make a down-payment of US$38,000.
The victim made 19 money transfers to three accounts totalling US$815,331 (about RM3.38 million) made up of her salary, savings and money borrowed from relatives.
While the suspect had promised marriage, he became uncontactable after he had swindled all her money, said Noorzainy.
“The victim made a police report on June 4 and the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code,” he said.
He advised members of the public not to fall in love too easily with someone they’ve just gotten to know on social media networks like Facebook and Instagram, or transfer money to someone they’ve never met.