15yo to 78yo among 268 probed over suspected scam and money mule roles tied to S$4.66m losses
Police are investigating 268 individuals over more than 800 scams that caused losses of over S$4.66 million, following a two-week operation that reflects Singapore’s intensifying challenge with rising scam cases.
- Police are investigating 268 individuals, aged 15 to 78, over suspected roles in more than 800 scams causing losses above S$4.66 million.
- Offences include cheating, money laundering and unlicensed payment services, with stiff penalties under recent legal changes.
- The case arises amid rising national scam losses, which reached S$456.4 million in the first half of 2025.
A total of 268 people aged between 15 and 78 are being investigated for suspected roles in scams that caused losses exceeding S$4.66 million.
According to a statement issued by police on 4 December 2025, the group is linked to more than 800 alleged cases.
Police said the latest operation reflects continued vigilance against evolving scam tactics.
The two-week operation, conducted between 21 November and 4 December, involved 177 men and 91 women.
They are being investigated for cheating, money laundering or providing payment services without a licence.
Cheating carries a jail term of up to 10 years and a fine.
Those convicted of money laundering face up to 10 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to S$500,000, or both.
Providing unlicensed payment services may result in a fine of up to S$125,000, imprisonment of up to three years, or both.
The alleged schemes include e-commerce scams, friend impersonation scams and job scams.
Government official impersonation, investment and rental scams were also among the cases examined.
Police noted that offenders supporting scam operations face tightened penalties under the Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill passed on 4 November.
Under the legislation, scammers, along with members and recruiters of scam syndicates, will receive mandatory caning of at least six strokes.
Depending on the severity of the offence, caning may rise to 24 strokes.
Scam mules who facilitate offences by laundering proceeds, supplying SIM cards or providing Singpass credentials may receive up to 12 strokes of discretionary caning.
The investigation comes against a backdrop of rising scam activity.
According to police figures, Singapore recorded S$456.4 million in scam losses in the first half of 2025, with nearly 20,000 cases.
Total losses in 2024 reached S$1.1 billion, the highest annual amount recorded.
Police urged the public not to allow others to use their bank accounts or mobile lines, noting that account holders will be held responsible if their accounts are tied to crimes.
Individuals seeking advice may visit www.scamshield.gov.sg or contact the ScamShield helpline on 1799.
Anyone with information on scams may call the police hotline on 1800-255-000 or submit details via www.police.gov.sg/i-witness.
Police stated that all information provided will be kept strictly confidential.
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