Introduction

SINGAPORE – A disturbing trend has emerged as foreign criminals exploit Singapore’s retail landscape, resulting in losses exceeding $300,000 primarily due to sophisticated credit card fraud schemes. Despite significant police intervention that led to the arrest of nine suspects, authorities are urgently seeking 11 additional individuals who have since fled the country.

Fraud Reports and Methods

On November 22, police unveiled that they had received at least 178 reports of fraudulent transactions since October 1, all involving illicit purchases of electronics, luxury items, and attraction tickets. The syndicates orchestrating these frauds are suspected of obtaining credit card information through a variety of e-commerce phishing scams. These stolen details were then utilized in a mobile application designed for remote control and contactless payments.

Recruitment and Operations

Many of the recruited criminals entered Singapore under misleading pretenses, recruited through social media channels in their home countries. They were instructed to purchase high-ticket items such as luxury mobile phones, electronic accessories, and gold bars using these fraudulent payment methods.

Police Investigation

The police investigation identified at least 20 individuals involved in a staggering number of reported cases, with nine now facing charges related to cheating and forgery. In addition to the suspects, authorities have confiscated more than $30,000 in cash, several gold bars, a foreign-registered vehicle, and over 30 mobile devices.

Identified Suspects

Among those apprehended were three Chinese nationals—Zhang Tianyu (29), Xu Zhaochen (36), and Li Xueqi (36)—as well as two Malaysians, Quek Jian Qing (21) and Yong Huo Ying (24). Other individuals who have been charged include Malaysians Ding Jiun Hao (25), Lim Wai Kiat (24), and Nai Jin Khin (35), along with Chinese national Hong Zepeng (30).

International Collaboration

The police are working with international partners to track down the remaining fugitives, who include individuals from China, Malaysia, and Russia. The identified Chinese suspects comprise Li Jianwen, Hu Gang, Zheng Dawei, Liao Wei Liang, Liu Dibiao, Yan Zhongzhe, and Zhao Tao, while the Malaysian suspects are Liau Wei Zheng, Tang Chin Huat, and Tsang Chee Liang. The only identified Russian among the group is Sergei Sokov.

Role of Retail Staff

During the press briefing, Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Police (DAC) Wong Keng Hoe recognized the crucial role played by retail staff in curbing these fraud activities, awarding seven employees from Best Denki, Courts, and T2 Electronics with Community Partnership Awards for their timely actions. Wong emphasized the importance of collaboration between police and retail partners in maintaining community safety.

Public Awareness and Safety

In light of these incidents, police reiterated their message to the public: safeguard your banking information and remain vigilant against potential scams. As fraud techniques evolve, so must public awareness – could you be the next line of defense against these cunning schemes? Stay alert and report any suspicious activity to the authorities immediately!