Three Chinese Tourists Charged in $2,600 Scam
In a case that highlights the vulnerabilities of tourists and the need for vigilance, three individuals from China have been arrested for orchestrating a scam that netted them over $2,600 in Singapore.
The trio, comprising two women and a man, posed as tourists and approached unsuspecting strangers, claiming they could only use WeChat Pay and were unable to pay for meals at nearby Chinese restaurants. Their deceitful tactics were effective until authorities caught up with them just before they planned to leave the country.
The Accused and Their Method
The three individuals, identified as Zhu Lianye, Zhou Jiemei, and Ding Shuai, entered Singapore on August 3 and were scheduled to leave on August 16. During their stay, they stayed in the same hotel and carried out their plan to deceive the public.
According to reports, the two women, Zhu Lianye and Zhou Jiemei, were responsible for approaching victims while Ding Shuai, alleged to be the mastermind, collected the money. After successfully scamming multiple individuals, they agreed to divide the money, with Ding Shuai taking 60% and the remaining 40% split between the two women.
How the Scam Unfolded
On August 8, the duo approached a victim near Yishun MRT station, claiming they could only pay via WeChat Pay. After borrowing $60 for a meal, they further solicited $950 for hotel fees, promising to repay the victim the following day. They even provided their WeChat details to gain the victim’s trust.
Over the course of their scam, the trio targeted at least five victims at various MRT stations, including Kampung Admiralty, Sun Plaza, and Marsiling MRT station.
Arrest and Charges
The group was arrested on August 15, just a day before their scheduled departure. In court, the prosecution noted that the scam was premeditated and involved cross-border elements, complicating law enforcement efforts.
During sentencing, Zhu Lianye and Zhou Jiemei pleaded guilty to multiple charges, resulting in six-month prison sentences. Ding Shuai, facing ten charges, had his case adjourned for further proceedings.
While defense lawyers sought leniency based on personal circumstances, the prosecution argued that the trio’s repeated offenses demonstrated a lack of remorse and disregard for the victims’ trust.
As this case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with acts of kindness and the importance of vigilance, especially in tourist areas.
