Singapore Police Probe 270 Suspected Scammers and Money Mules Linked to $5.4 Million in Losses

Singapore police are investigating 270 individuals for their suspected involvement in scam-related activities, including acting as scammers or money mules, following a two-week enforcement operation.

The operation, conducted from July 30 to August 12 by officers from the Cyber Command and seven police land divisions, involved 185 men and 85 women aged between 15 and 80.

According to a police statement issued on August 13, the suspects are believed to be linked to more than 660 scam cases, with victims reportedly losing approximately $5.4 million.

The cases involved a range of scam types, including e-commerce scams, phishing scams, job scams, government official impersonation scams, investment scams and lucky draw scams.

The 270 individuals are being investigated for alleged offences including cheating, money laundering and providing payment services without a licence.

Under Singapore law, those convicted of cheating may face up to 10 years' imprisonment and a fine. Money laundering offences may also carry a jail term of up to 10 years, a fine of up to $500,000, or both.

Authorities have also highlighted Singapore's tougher penalties against scam syndicates. Scammers and members or recruiters of scam networks may face mandatory caning of between six and 24 strokes. Scam mules who assist criminal operations by laundering illicit proceeds or providing SIM cards or Singpass credentials may face discretionary caning of up to 12 strokes.

The latest operation underscores Singapore's continued crackdown on the networks behind investment scams and other forms of fraud, targeting not only the masterminds but also the individuals who facilitate the movement of stolen funds.