Terengganu: Terengganu continues to record an increase in commercial crime cases, with 1,009 cases recorded in the first six months of this year compared to 995 cases during the same period last year.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Terengganu police chief Datuk Mohd Khairi Khairudin stated that cybercrime accounted for the highest number of cases at 980. This was followed by counterfeit currency with 13 cases, offences under the Moneylenders Act 1951 (Amendment 2011) with 12 cases, criminal breach of trust with three cases, and one other case.

Mohd Khairi highlighted that commercial crime cases this year also recorded an increase in total losses. The losses rose from RM20,198,493.73 between January and June last year to RM21,035,250.57 during the same period this year.

He further explained that losses from cybercrime cases involving syndicates, including love scams, non-existent investment schemes, and phone scams, recorded the highest amount at RM20,938,370.57 between January and June this year.

The police chief urged the public to remain vigilant and be aware of various fraud tactics employed by syndicates, which are becoming increasingly widespread. He advised verifying information through applications or official channels provided by the police or government before making any payments.

Mohd Khairi noted that despite the rise in cases and losses, the total number of arrests decreased to 402 in the first six months of this year, compared to 458 during the same period last year.