The Singapore Police Force (SPF) has seized over S$539,000 (approximately ₹3.3 crore) in suspected scam proceeds and frozen 176 bank accounts linked to money-laundering and cyber fraud networks.
The operation, conducted between November 17 and 28, 2025, was led jointly by the Anti-Scam Command and Police Land Division’s scam strike teams, covering multiple locations across the city-state.
Focus on Three Major Scam Types: Impersonation, Investment, and Job Frauds
According to police officials, the coordinated action targeted individuals suspected of involvement in scams related to impersonation of government officers, fake investment schemes, and online job frauds.
These three categories, authorities said, were among the top five most prevalent scam types in Singapore during the first half of 2025.
Investigators confirmed that the 176 individuals under probe are aged between 16 and 85, many of whom allegedly allowed their bank accounts or e-wallets to be used by fraud syndicates for money movement and laundering activities.
Legal Provisions and Potential Penalties
Police stated that the suspects may face prosecution under two key legislations:
- 1. Corruption, Drug Trafficking and Other Serious Crimes (Confiscation of Benefits) Act – for assisting in retaining benefits from criminal conduct. Conviction carries up to three years’ imprisonment, a fine of S$50,000, or both.
- 2. Computer Misuse Act – for unauthorised access to computer material, which is punishable by up to two years in jail, a fine of S$5,000, or both for first-time offenders.
Police Advisory: Heightened Vigilance Against Digital Scams
In an official statement, the Singapore Police Force urged citizens to remain cautious against unsolicited calls, emails or messages from individuals claiming to represent government agencies or investment platforms.
Fraudsters, police noted, often impersonate officers from agencies such as the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) or the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) to extort money under the guise of resolving “legal issues” or “avoiding arrest.”
A growing number of victims have also reported being duped through offers of online part-time jobs or high-return stock investments, where they were tricked into paying “processing fees” or making upfront deposits.
Swift Action and Preventive Coordination
A police spokesperson said that, in recent months, the Anti-Scam Command has intensified coordination with major banks, payment gateways, and digital platforms to identify and intercept fraudulent financial activities.
As part of the current operation, 176 bank accounts have been frozen, S$539,000 in cash seized, and several electronic devices confiscated for forensic examination.
Authorities added that many of these accounts were used as “money mule” conduits, helping scammers launder funds to overseas networks while concealing the identities of the masterminds.
Firm Message: Zero Tolerance for Cybercrime
Reaffirming its stance, the SPF said Singapore maintains a “zero-tolerance policy” toward online fraud, money laundering, and impersonation crimes.
Citizens are urged to report any suspicious activity or potential scam through the Anti-Scam Helpline (1800-722-6688) or via the ScamShield app.
According to experts, online scam incidents in Singapore have risen by over 30% in 2025, with social media and e-commerce platforms emerging as the primary channels used by fraudsters to lure victims.
The large-scale enforcement highlights Singapore’s proactive approach to curbing cyber-enabled financial crimes.
Authorities emphasised that digital vigilance and public awareness remain the strongest safeguards against modern scams.
As one senior officer said,
“The more informed citizens are, the fewer opportunities scammers will have.”
