424 scammers investigated for involvement in scams that cheated victims over $5.4 million

A total of 279 men and 145 women, aged between 16 and 81, are currently assisting with investigations for their suspected involvement in scams following a three-week enforcement operation.

The operation was conducted between July 18 and August 7 by officers from the Commercial Affairs Department and the seven police land divisions.

The police said in a statement that the suspects are believed to be involved in 786 cases of scams, comprising mainly of internet love scams, e-commerce scams, and loan scams, where victims purportedly lost more than $5.4 million.

The suspects are being investigated for the offence of cheating or money laundering.

The offence of cheating carries an imprisonment term of up to ten years and a fine.

The offence of money laundering carries an imprisonment term of up to ten years and a fine of up to S$500,000.

The police take a serious view against any person who may be involved in scams, and perpetrators will be dealt with in accordance with the law.

"To avoid being an accomplice to crimes, members of the public should always reject requests by others to use your bank account or mobile lines as you will be held accountable if these are linked to illegal transactions," said the police.

For more information on scams, members of the public can visit www.scamalert.sg or call the Anti-Scam Hotline at 1800 722 6688.

Anyone with information on such scams may call the Police hotline at 1800 255 0000 or submit information online at www.police.gov.sg/iwitness.