The Police have arrested a 28-year-old man believed to be involved in a case of extortion at Hougang Avenue 4.
On 13 June 2016 at about 11.59 pm, Police received a report lodged by a 17-year-old woman informing that an online male acquaintance had threatened to post a compromising video of her online on 9 June 2016 if she failed to transfer S$350 to him. Fearing his threats, the victim transferred a total of $65 over several transactions, before deciding to lodge a police report.
Upon receipt of the report, officers from Ang Mo Kio Division conducted extensive ground enquiries and managed to establish the identity of the suspect. On 14 June 2016, the suspect was traced and arrested at the vicinity of Hougang Avenue 1.
The suspect will be charged in Court on 16 June 2016 for the offence of Extortion under Section 384 of the Penal Code, Chapter 224. If convicted, he faces a minimum jail term of 2 years or not more than 7 years, and with caning.
To avoid becoming a victim of such crimes, you should take note of the following:
- Be wary of strangers who befriend you online
- Do not provide personal details about yourself when engaging with other internet users
- If you have any information relating to this scam, call the Police hotline at 1800-255 0000, or dial ‘999’ for urgent Police assistance.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
15 June 2016 @ 11:35 PM