Unlucky Draw: Sibu woman loses RM243,300 in online scam

SIBU (Jan 23): A local woman in her 40s reportedly lost RM243,300 after falling victim to an online lucky draw scam.

Sibu police chief, ACP Zulkipli Suhaili, said the Commercial Crime Investigation Unit (CCID) received a report from the victim on Thursday.

The incident began on Dec 24, 2025, when the woman received a phone call from an unknown caller claiming she had won a cash prize of RM237,000.

“The suspect then requested an advance payment of RM6,000, allegedly to process the release of the prize money.

“Without much hesitation, the victim proceeded to transfer funds to several bank accounts provided by the suspect,” Zulkipli said in a statement.

He said the victim made 15 separate transfers to 15 different local bank accounts, ultimately losing RM243,300.

She did not receive any prize money and realised she had been defrauded, prompting her to lodge a police report, he added.

Zulkipli urged the public to remain vigilant when receiving offers of cash prizes through phone calls, messages, or social media.

He urged people from making any money transfers or deposits into personal accounts of unknown individuals.

“Members of the public are also encouraged to verify with family members or authorities before conducting any financial transactions,” he said.

For guidance or to report suspicious activity, the public can contact the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) at 997, or verify suspicious bank accounts and phone numbers via ccid.mp.gov.my/semakmule.