Teen's Kidnapping In Malaysia Was A Staged Scam To Siphon Millions From His Own Parents
Malaysian authorities revealed that the entire incident was a hoax orchestrated by the 18-year-old and his older accomplice.
Cover image via What was initially believed to be a high-profile kidnapping case of an 18-year-old Chinese student in Malaysia has taken a dramatic turn
Police now believe the entire ordeal was staged by the teen and his accomplice in an elaborate scam to extort money from his wealthy parents in Dubai, reported a local radio station.
The teen, who had been studying in Singapore, crossed into Johor on 30 April, where he was allegedly abducted by a group of Chinese nationals. His parents were reportedly contacted by the "kidnappers", who demanded a ransom that escalated from 500,000 yuan to a staggering 3 million yuan (approximately RM300,000 to RM1.8 million), along with threats to dismember their son if the ransom wasn't paid.
A video sent to the family showed the teen tied up and shoved to the ground, as a voice warned, "Your son is now in my hands."
Image via China Press
Malaysian authorities revealed today, 13 May, that the entire incident was a hoax orchestrated by the teenager and a 23-year-old accomplice
Both are Chinese nationals.
According to Mandarin-language station 988, the two suspects were charged in a Kuala Lumpur court this morning, 13 May, with attempted fraud under Sections 420 and 511 of the Penal Code.
The duo allegedly conspired to fake the kidnapping in a bid to cheat the teen's parents out of over RM2 million. Authorities initially took the incident seriously.
Image via 988
After the family flew to Malaysia to lodge a police report, a massive investigation was launched. The older suspect was first arrested on 4 May at Penang International Airport, while the 18-year-old was later found at a location in Baling, Kedah.
Although he appeared to have minor injuries on his leg, police noted inconsistencies during questioning and began to suspect something was amiss.
Their suspicions were confirmed.
What was initially a high-profile case turned out to be a premeditated scheme staged by the "victim" himself. Investigations are ongoing, and police have not ruled out the possibility of more people being involved.
Image via China Press
