KUCHING, April 29 -- A 62-year-old man lost RM415,000 in a scam that began when he met a suspect in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, who offered to arrange Haj permits and a hotel for pilgrims.

Kuching police chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu said the victim was introduced to the Malay male suspect on October 30, 2024, at a restaurant near The Clock Towers in Mecca.

The victim was offered assistance to obtain Haj permits and to invest in accommodation for pilgrims during the Haj and Umrah seasons.

"Attracted by the offer, the victim made six online payment transactions to two different bank accounts.

"The first payment was made while the victim was at his residence in Kuching, Sarawak, on November 10, 2024.

"As a result of the incident, the victim su...