SPF: S$4.1m lost to scams in two weeks as 231 suspected scammers and money mules investigated

SINGAPORE: A joint two-week operation by the Singapore Police Force’s Cyber Command and all seven Police Land Divisions between August 13 and 26, 2026, has resulted in 231 persons (149 men and 82 women aged between 15 and 76) assisting with investigations for suspected involvement in scams as either scammers or money mules.

The suspects are believed to be linked to more than 721 scam cases spanning e-commerce scams, phishing scams, job scams, government official impersonation scams, investment scams, and lucky draw scams, with victims reportedly losing around S$4.1 million in total.

Investigations are ongoing for alleged offences of cheating, money laundering, and providing payment services without a licence. Cheating under the Penal Code carries up to ten years’ imprisonment and a fine. Money laundering under the Corruption, Drug Trafficking and Other Serious Crimes (Confiscation of Benefits) Act (CDSA) carries up to ten years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to S$500,000, or both. Operating a payment service without a licence carries a fine of up to S$125,000, up to three years’ imprisonment, or both.

Under Singapore’s enhanced sentencing framework, scam syndicate members and recruiters face mandatory caning of between six and 24 strokes. Money mules who launder scam proceeds, provide SIM cards, or supply Singpass credentials face discretionary caning of up to 12 strokes for relevant offences.

Individuals linked to mule-related offences may also face restrictions on banking services and mobile line subscriptions under the Facility Restriction Framework, regardless of whether they have been convicted. This is to prevent further facilitation of scam activities.

Members of the public with scam-related information can call the Police Hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submit at www.police.gov.sg/i-witness. For more information on scams, visit www.scamshield.gov.sg or call the ScamShield Helpline at 1799.

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