Singaporean kidnapped in Malaysia, safe after rescue in Kedah: S’pore police

SINGAPORE - A 72-year-old Singaporean man was rescued in Kedah on Aug 7 by the Malaysian police, after he went to Malaysia in late July and was kidnapped.

According to a statement by the Singapore Police Force (SPF) on Aug 10, the man had travelled to Malaysia on July 26. His family alerted SPF after receiving information on Aug 4 that he might have been kidnapped in Malaysia, and a ransom had been demanded for his release.

SPF sought the assistance of the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP), who mounted operations and rescued the man on Aug 7 in Kedah. The man is safe and has received medical attention.

RMP investigations found that the suspects allegedly used social media and online platforms, including Telegram, WeChat and Badoo, to establish acquaintances with potential victims, SPF said in its statement.

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

SPF’s Criminal Investigation Department director Julius Lim expressed appreciation to the RMP for their swift action and close cooperation, adding: “This operation is a reflection of the strong and longstanding partnership between the SPF and RMP, and our shared commitment to keep our communities safe.”