Arrest Made in Singapore Linked to Cambodia-Based Scam Syndicate

In a significant crackdown on organized crime, a 24-year-old Malaysian man was apprehended at the Woodlands Checkpoint in Singapore on Sunday, December 28. Goh Eugene is suspected of being affiliated with a scam syndicate based in Cambodia that has been linked to numerous deception cases targeting victims in Singapore.

Details of the Arrest

Law enforcement officials believe that Goh is part of a well-structured criminal network operating out of Phnom Penh. This group is accused of orchestrating scams where perpetrators impersonate government officials to defraud unsuspecting individuals. Goh’s identity was confirmed through extensive ongoing investigations surrounding the syndicate, according to a statement issued by the police.

Scope of the Scam

The crime syndicate has reportedly been involved in at least 438 cases of government official impersonation scams, resulting in total losses exceeding S$41 million (approximately US$31.9 million). The group managed its operations from a designated compound in Phnom Penh until authorities intervened during a collaborative operation on September 9, when the syndicate was disrupted.

Legal Consequences

As part of the continuing investigation, the Singapore police have issued prohibition of disposal orders and have confiscated assets associated with the scam group. Goh is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday, where he will be charged with facilitating the commission of a serious offence linked to the criminal organization. If found guilty, he could face a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a fine of up to S$100,000, or both.

Ongoing Investigations

Authorities have indicated that 30 other suspects remain at large, including 24 Singaporeans and six Malaysians. The list of wanted Singaporeans includes individuals like Ng Wei Liang, Andrew Tay Jing An, and many others. Meanwhile, the six Malaysians sought for questioning are Tang Soon Fai, Kang Liang Yee, and others.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of these individuals is urged to contact the police hotline at 1800-255-0000, or +65 6255 0000 for calls from abroad, or submit tips online. The police have assured the public that all information will be treated with confidentiality.