A 41-year-old man has been arrested after he allegedly deceived a homeowner into paying more than S$86,000 for renovation works by falsely claiming to represent a renovation company.
Police believe the suspect may be linked to several other cheating cases involving a similar method.
Victim paid over S$86,000
According to the Singapore Police Force, officers received a report on July 3 at about 4.32pm alleging that a man had failed to carry out renovation works after receiving payment.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect had allegedly claimed to be affiliated with a renovation company, prompting the victim to engage him for renovation services.
After paying more than S$86,000, the victim realised that the renovation works had not been completed.
The victim later discovered that the man was not an employee of the renovation company he had claimed to represent and subsequently lodged a police report.
Suspect linked to similar cases
Following ground enquiries, officers from the Bedok Police Division identified and arrested the 41-year-old suspect.
Preliminary investigations indicate that he is believed to be involved in several other cheating cases using a similar modus operandi.
The man is scheduled to be charged in court on July 18 with cheating under Section 420 of the Penal Code 1871.
If convicted, he faces:
- Up to 10 years’ imprisonment
- A fine
Police remind public to verify contractors
The Singapore Police Force said it takes cheating offences seriously and will not hesitate to take action against those who commit such crimes.
Members of the public are advised to exercise caution when engaging renovation contractors by:
- Verifying the credentials of both the company and its representatives.
- Avoiding large upfront payments before renovation work has started.
- Confirming that the person collecting payment is genuinely authorised to act on behalf of the renovation company.
Taking these precautions can help reduce the risk of falling victim to renovation-related scams.