PUTRAJAYA: A woman suspected of involvement in the case of 26 stranded umrah pilgrims at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) on Wednesday has been remanded for two days, beginning yesterday.
A spokesman from the Bentong police station confirmed receiving a report from a female victim.
The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating.
The spokesman said the suspect was being held at the police station, and police had recorded a statement from the victim.
"So far, the Bentong police have received one report regarding this case, while four other reports have been filed in the country's northern region.
"The suspect's initial remand period ends today. She will be transferred to Kedah for further remand to assist with ongoing investigations," the spokesman said.
Yesterday, it was reported that 26 pilgrims were stranded at KLIA after a travel agency, managed by the suspect, failed to provide accommodation and tickets for their trip to Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
The travel agency had claimed the departure date was Dec 25 at 3.30pm via Etihad Airways, but no such flight existed.
The travel agency offered the pilgrims low-cost umrah packages priced at RM4,500 per person. Some participants suffered losses of up to RM20,900.
A 26-year-old female victim confirmed that she lodged a report at the Bentong police station yesterday.
She said she had given her statement to the police.
"I hope more victims will come forward and file reports so the suspect can face legal action and receive appropriate punishment."