Penang police arrest 29 foreigners in 'Scratch and Win' scam raids
GEORGE TOWN: Police have arrested 29 foreigners following three raids on a "Scratch and Win" online scam syndicate believed to have targeted victims in China and Cambodia.
Penang police have apprehended 29 foreigners in raids targeting a suspected online scam syndicate, according to police chief Datuk Dennis Lim. The suspects, aged between 20 and 63, included 19 Chinese nationals and 10 Cambodians. The Penang Commercial Crime Investigation Department conducted raids on three separate bungalows in the southwest district on September 22.
The syndicate allegedly operated live sessions on social media platforms, offering victims "Scratch and Win" cards and charging them via QR codes for processing fees, taxes, and insurance. However, upon attempting to claim their prizes, victims found that nothing was available. Police seized various electronic devices, documents, and suspected counterfeit materials.
The operation has been ongoing for about two to three months, primarily targeting Chinese and Cambodian nationals. The suspects have been remanded until October 13 under relevant penal codes for cheating and criminal conspiracy. Police urged the public to remain vigilant against online scams and report any suspected fraud to the nearest police station or the National Scam Response Centre.
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