239 persons, including 15yo teen, probed over 676 scam cases involving S$8.9 million losses

SINGAPORE: A total of 239 individuals, including a 15-year-old teenager, are under police investigation for their alleged involvement in scams following a coordinated islandwide operation conducted between 9 April 2026 and 22 April 2026.

According to a police statement issued on 23 April 2026, the operation was led by officers from the Commercial Affairs Department alongside all seven Police Land Divisions.

It targeted individuals suspected of participating in scam activities either as perpetrators or facilitators.

Authorities reported that the group, comprising 162 men and 77 women aged between 15 and 85, is believed to be linked to more than 676 scam cases. Victims in these cases reportedly suffered total losses exceeding S$8.9 million.

Wide range of scam types identified

Investigations indicate that the suspects were involved in multiple scam categories.

These include e-commerce scams, friend impersonation scams, job scams, government official impersonation scams, investment scams and rental scams.

Police said the individuals are assisting with investigations for offences including cheating, money laundering, and providing payment services without a licence.

“The persons are believed to be involved in more than 676 cases of scams,” the statement said, adding that the cases span a wide spectrum of commonly reported scam types.

Authorities emphasised the seriousness of the offences and outlined the penalties under existing laws.

Cheating under Section 420 of the Penal Code 1871 carries a prison term of up to 10 years and a fine.

Money laundering offences under the Corruption, Drug Trafficking and Other Serious Crimes (Confiscation of Benefits) Act 1992 may result in imprisonment of up to 10 years, a fine of up to S$500,000, or both.

Providing payment services without a licence under Section 5 of the Payment Services Act 2019 carries penalties of up to S$125,000 in fines, imprisonment of up to three years, or both.

Stricter enforcement measures introduced

Police highlighted enhanced penalties introduced in recent months.

With effect from 30 December 2025, scammers and members or recruiters of scam syndicates face mandatory caning of at least six strokes, which may extend to 24 strokes.

Scam mules, described as individuals who facilitate scams by laundering proceeds or supplying resources such as SIM cards and Singpass credentials, may face discretionary caning of up to 12 strokes.

These penalties apply to offences under several laws, including the Computer Misuse Act and the Miscellaneous Offences (Public Order and Nuisance) Act.

Public advisory and preventive measures

Police reiterated that individuals linked to scam-related crimes will be held accountable.

“Anyone found to be linked to such crimes will be held accountable,” the statement said.

Authorities also outlined preventive measures under the Facility Restriction Framework.

Individuals involved in mule-related activities may face restrictions on banking services and mobile line subscriptions, even if they are under investigation or have been issued warnings.

Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant and seek information through official channels.

They may visit the ScamShield website or contact the ScamShield Helpline at 1799 for assistance.

Those with information related to scams can call the Police Hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submit reports online. Police stated that all information provided will be kept strictly confidential.

According to data released in February 2026 by the Singapore Police Force, 37,308 scam cases were reported in 2025, down from 51,501 in 2024.

This contributed to a 24.8 per cent decline in total scam and cybercrime cases, which fell to 41,974.

However, scams remained the primary driver, accounting for 88.9 per cent of cases.

Total financial losses also declined by 17.9 per cent, from S$1.124 billion in 2024 to approximately S$913.1 million in 2025.