KUANTAN: A retiree's dream of performing her umrah pilgrimage went up in smoke, along with RM11,400 of her hard-earned money after being duped over a non-existent pilgrimage package.
Pahang police chief, Datuk Seri Ramli Mohamed Yoosuf, said the 58-year-old from Temerloh was drawn by an umrah package she received via WhatsApp on March 5.
According to the WhatsApp message, she had qualified for an umrah and haj sponsorship programme.
"The woman then contacted the number provided. The contact person claimed to be with a company appointed by the supposed sponsors of the programme.
"Enticed by the prospect, the woman then made five banking transactions to two different bank accounts provided by the suspect.
"On Thursday, she contacted the company, only to be told that there was no such programme offered," he said, leaving her shocked as she had already transferred RM11,400 to the suspect.
The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating.
Ramli advised the people against dealing with supposed agents or representatives of any organisations and to instead directly deal with the companies or reputable travel agents.
"Don't be too easily fooled by cheap umrah packages. Always verify with Tabung Haji to ensure that the companies in question are legitimate," he said.
