News
217 alleged scammers & money mules, aged 16 to 83, being investigated in S'pore
They are believed to be involved in over 700 scam cases.
January 30, 2026, 03:46 PM
A total of 217 people are assisting with police investigations for their suspected involvement in scams where victims reportedly lost over S$7.67 million.
They comprise 78 women and 139 men, as young as 16, and up to the age of 83.
The police shared this in a news release on Jan. 30, following a two-week police operation.
These people are suspected to be scammers or money mules who allegedly cheated, committed money laundering, or provided payment services without a licence.
They are believed to be linked to more than 700 scam cases, ranging from e-commerce and government official impersonation scams, to rental and investment scams.
Scammers may be caned
Since Dec. 30, 2025, scammers and members or recruiters of scam syndicates will be punished with six to 24 strokes of the cane.
Scam mules who enable scams by laundering the proceeds, providing SIM cards, and providing Singpass credentials will also face discretionary caning of up to 12 strokes.
People involved in mule-related offences, including those under investigation, may face restrictions on banking services and mobile line subscriptions to prevent further facilitation of scams.
Anyone with information on suspected scams may call the police hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submit information online here. All information will be kept strictly confidential.
Top images from Canva and Chen Eason/Google Maps
