GEORGE TOWN: 24 Aug 2026  Penang police have smashed an alleged love scam syndicate in Batu Ferringhi, arresting 20 foreign men in a Sunday evening raid.
 
Northeast OCPD ACP Abdul Rozak Muhammad said the suspects, aged 19 to 41, were apprehended at about 7.05pm following an operation by the CCID and Batu Ferringhi police. The syndicate is alleged to have used Telegram to target victims in China.
 
Police recovered multiple mobile phones, laptops, notebooks, and communications gear. All suspects have been remanded four days until Aug 27 under Section 420/120B of the Penal Code.