World · Malaysia Bureau
Elderly Sibu woman loses RM317,000 in elaborate ritual scam
Police in Sibu have confirmed that a woman in her 70s fell victim to a sophisticated fraud scheme involving ritual-based deception. The incident has raised fresh concerns about scam syndicates targeting vulnerable seniors in Sarawak.
LSN Malaysia ·
A senior citizen in Sibu has lost RM317,000 after being deceived by a scam syndicate employing a ritual-based modus operandi, according to police confirmation on Saturday. The elderly housewife became entangled in the scheme, which exploited superstitious beliefs and trust to extract substantial sums from the victim over a period of interactions.
The case adds to a growing list of fraud incidents targeting older residents in the state, with scammers increasingly using psychological manipulation and cultural beliefs as tools to bypass victims' defences. Authorities did not disclose additional details regarding the specific methods used or the timeline of the fraud.
The Sibu police have urged the public to exercise caution when approached by individuals offering ritual services or claiming to solve financial or personal problems through supernatural means. Residents are advised to verify such claims independently and consult trusted family members before making financial commitments.
The incident underscores the need for enhanced awareness campaigns targeting senior citizens about common scam tactics. Police encouraged victims and their families to report suspected fraud immediately to facilitate investigations and prevent further losses.