Based all the way in call centres in China, a total of 627 reports of credit-for-sex scams were lodged and received by the Singapore Police Force (SPF) in the first half of 2015.
Half a year later, the culprits behind the scam have been nabbed — the fraud syndicate that targeted Singaporean victims have been shut down by the Chinese Police, with help from SPF.
About $1.6 million were cheated from the scams, which targeted horny young Singaporean lads. The scammers would convince their victims into purchasing cards, online shopping credits or even remit money overseas in exchange for sexual favours. They would communicate through messages and calls on Facebook, Wechat and iAround.
In some instances, the scammers would ask for more money, claiming protection fees or the need to outbid other customers for the ‘girl’s’ services. Of course, as soon as they got the money, the victims were ditched.
Investigations revealed that the scams operated from call centres based in China. Last month, simultaneous raids at various locations in China were executed, nabbing 43 members of the syndicate. Several computers, telecommunication devices and modems were seized during the raid.
“We appreciate the support from our Chinese counterparts in this joint investigation,” said SPF’s Director of Commercial Affairs Department David Chew. “The close cooperation between the SPF and the Chinese Police was instrumental in crippling this transnational criminal syndicate.”
