Police have crippled a syndicate which offered fake COVID-19 vaccine packages online, and via phone calls, in Selangor.

According to Harian Metro, the syndicate had offered vaccine packages at RM450 for locals, and RM800 for foreigners.

Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) director Kamarudin Md Din said acting on a tip-off, his officers arrested a man and woman aged 26 and 27, respectively, in Selangor, on Wednesday.

The couple had been remanded to facilitate investigations.

"Initial investigations revealed that the suspects would reach out to their potential victims via Facebook, and via phone calls.

"Those who express interest will be enrolled into the Selangor state's vaccination program (SCVP), via the Selangkah app, and put on the waiting list," Kamarudin said in a brief statement.

The payment has be made when the buyer receives notification for vaccination in the application.

According to Kamarudin, the suspects told the police that they have contacted about 30 people so far, and about 10 percent have expressed interest to take part in the program.

"So far, the SCVP program is only open to companies, and is not yet open to individuals," said Kamarudin, further urging the urging the public to be vigilant, so that they won't fall victim to such scams.

Under the National COVID-19 Immunization Program, vaccines are currently given free for all. More than 5.11 million vaccines have been given thus far, while 1.48 million of the 32 million population have been fully vaccinated.


Source: Harian Metro
Photo source: Reuters