Interior designer arrested for allegedly pocketing client’s money in direct payment scheme
Similar ruses by the suspect have cost victims more than $100,000, said the police.
A 51-year-old interior designer has been arrested for allegedly defrauding customers in a direct payment scheme, according to the police in Singapore. The suspect, who is set to be charged with cheating on August 15, is accused of leading his customers to pay him directly rather than his company, resulting in losses exceeding $100,000.
The police first received a report on June 29 about the man's scheme, which involved offering discounts on renovation services if payment was made directly to him instead of the company's account. The defrauded customers later contacted the renovation company, which advised them to report the matter to the police, leading to the suspect's arrest.
Police investigations suggest the man used the stolen funds for gambling purposes. The authorities have warned the public to exercise caution when hiring renovation companies or contractors, advising them to verify the credentials of the company and its representative and avoid making significant payments before work begins.
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