Arrests Made in Umrah Scam Involving Travel Agency

Selangor police chief Hussein Omar Khan announced that 379 victims have been affected by a travel agency that failed to fly out a group of umrah pilgrims. The agency’s owners, a couple aged 31, have been arrested and several computers, passports, and related documents were seized during the arrest.

Background

On July 19, the Selangor police headquarters’ commercial crime investigation department received a police report in Sepang at 10.39pm regarding an umrah fraud case involving a travel agency. The complainant, a 39-year-old woman, reported losses amounting to RM11,000. Further investigation found that the agency had started operations two years ago and moved to a three-storey building in Sepang last October.

Investigation and Findings

An investigation paper has been opened under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating. Hussein said that the couple’s modus operandi was to enlist prospective pilgrims through advertisements on their TikTok account. The victims were promised umrah packages but were left stranded.

Estimated losses amounting to RM2.1 million were reported, making it one of the largest scams of its kind in recent history. The travel agency’s alleged failure to fulfill its obligations to the pilgrims has caused a significant amount of distress and financial loss.

Arrest and Seizures

The Selangor police chief said that the couple was arrested at 7pm in Kuala Lumpur on July 19. Several computers, passports, and related documents were seized during the arrest.

Ministry Investigation

Prior to the arrest, the Tourism, Arts, and Culture Ministry announced that it was investigating a licensed tourism agency that allegedly failed to fly out umrah pilgrims. It is unclear at this point if the agency has any connection to the travel agency involved in this scam.

Conclusion

This incident highlights the importance of vetting travel agencies and tour operators before booking packages. It also underscores the need for stricter regulations and enforcement in the tourism industry to prevent similar scams from happening in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Who were the alleged perpetrators of the scam?
A: A 31-year-old couple who own a travel agency in Sepang.

Q: How many victims were affected?
A: A total of 379 victims.

Q: How much was estimated to be lost?
A: RM2.1 million.

Q: Is the agency involved in this scam licensed?
A: It is unclear at this point if the agency has a valid license to operate.

Q: What section of the penal code is being used to prosecute the couple?
A: Section 420, which deals with cheating.