KUANTAN: A staggering RM81 million has been lost to scammers in Pahang in the first 10 months of this year, compared to RM53 million during the same period last year.
Pahang police chief Datuk Seri Yahaya Othman said the state's Commercial Crime Investigation Department opened 1,877 investigation papers between January and October this year, compared to 2,049 papers during the same period last year.
"Pahang has recorded an increase of RM28 million in losses due to various cases this year, while the number of investigation files has decreased by 8.4 per cent compared to last year.
"The department has arrested 1,449 individuals this year for various fraud offences, including unlicensed money lending activities.
"A total of 1,412 cases have been prosecuted in court this year," he said during his speech at the state police contingent headquarters' monthly assembly here today.
Yahaya reminded personnel from the state's Commercial Crime Investigation Department to intensify efforts to raise awareness and provide talks to prevent the public from falling victim to scams.
"Campaigns through broadcast media, social media, or by arranging meet-and-greet sessions with the community should be held regularly to ensure the public is aware of the new tactics scammers use to deceive the innocent," he said.
Meanwhile, Yahaya also urged district police chiefs to improve the quality of services by reducing bureaucracy and simplifying certain processes.
"Adopt principles of speed, transparency, and accuracy in policing services at the district level. The general roll call should be made a routine practice to emphasise important reminders and ensure personnel are able to perform their duties effectively.
"When carrying out our responsibilities as the primary protectors of the community and national security, we must not neglect the importance of empowering integrity and moral values.
"This will help avoid negative perceptions about the department, especially concerning issues such as bribery, immoral behaviour, and power abuse," he said.