S'porean man, 72, rescued after getting kidnapped in M'sia

The Singapore Police Force (SPF) confirmed that a 72-year-old Singaporean man got kidnapped in Malaysia and has been rescued.

His rescue was the result of SPF and Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) working together, SPF said in a Aug. 10 news release.

What happened

The man had travelled on his own to Malaysia on Jul. 26, 2026.

His family subsequently alerted the SPF after being concerned for his safety.

They had received information on Aug. 4 indicating that he may have been kidnapped in Malaysia and that a ransom had been demanded for his release.

The SPF immediately sought the assistance of the Malaysian police and shared relevant information with them.

The Malaysian police subsequently mounted operations that led to the rescue of the man.

The SPF supported the investigative effort from Singapore and worked closely with the man’s next-of-kin, providing them with support and assistance.

The man was successfully rescued by the Malaysian police on Aug. 7, 2026, in Kedah, Malaysia.

"He is safe and has received the necessary medical attention," the police added.

Potential victims invited to go overseas

Based on preliminary investigations by the Malaysia police, the suspects allegedly used social media and online platforms, including Telegram, WeChat and Badoo to establish acquaintances with potential victims.

They would then invite the victims to meet in person under various pretexts, including going on holiday, employment opportunities or socialising.

The SPF advised members of the public to exercise caution when interacting with persons they have met online, particularly where they do not know the person well and are invited to meet in person or travel overseas.