Malaysia Busts RM3.17 Billion Ponzi Scheme, Arrests Eight Including Four Datuks

Malaysian authorities dismantled a Ponzi scheme called MBI Investment, based in a neighboring country, through a cross-border operation on March 20, named Operation Northern Star.

The operation, led by the Anti-Money Laundering Investigation Team and prompted by an Interpol red notice, resulted in the arrest of eight local suspects, including four with the title “Datuk” (two entrepreneurs and two lawyers), aged 44 to 62.

Ponzi Scheme

Assets worth RM3.17 billion were seized and frozen, including 638 bank and share accounts (RM1.16 billion), 35 properties (RM2 billion), 10 luxury vehicles, 13 luxury watches, cash, jewelry, electronics, handbags, and documents, all believed to be proceeds of the scam.

The suspects were remanded for one to seven days for further investigation, and the police vowed to pursue others involved in related money laundering activities while urging the public to stay cautious.

More Business News

Staff Writer

Recent Posts

RON95 rises 10 sen to RM3.97 per litre

Finance Ministry raises RON97 and RON95 prices, keeps diesel unchanged, urges prudent fuel use amid…

3 hours ago

MACC Continues Questioning James Chai Over RM1.11 Billion Project

MACC continues questioning James Chai over RM1.11 billion semiconductor project, with statements recorded from 17…

3 hours ago

Shopee Launches RM150 Million Lindung Niaga Initiative for MSMEs

Shopee launches RM150 million Lindung Niaga initiative to support MSMEs with shipping, financing, and fulfilment…

3 hours ago

Why Cybersecurity Must Be a Priority for Malaysian SMEs

Malaysia's SMEs must prioritize cybersecurity amidst rising online threats, employing strategies like Multi-Factor Authentication and…

12 hours ago

Benchmark to trade within the 1,725–1,740

We expect the benchmark to trade within the 1,725–1,740 range today.

14 hours ago

UAE Exits OPEC: A Seismic Shift for Global Oil Markets

The UAE’s departure from OPEC+ effective May 1, 2026, removes a key pillar of market…

16 hours ago

This website uses cookies.