24-year-old Malaysian deported and handed to SPF as cross-border operation intensifies
A Malaysian man linked to a large-scale, Singaporean-led scam syndicate operating in Cambodia has been arrested and handed over to the Singapore Police Force (SPF), marking the latest breakthrough in a major cross-border investigation targeting impersonation fraud rings.
Malaysian Arrested After Cambodia Deportation
Bernard Goh Yie Shen, 24, was arrested in Phnom Penh by Cambodian authorities before being deported to Malaysia, where he was immediately detained by the Royal Malaysia Police. He was handed over to SPF on Nov 17, and is believed to be part of a syndicate responsible for hundreds of government official impersonation scams targeting Singapore residents.
Syndicate Behind Massive Financial Losses
Authorities say the group is linked to at least 438 reported scam cases, resulting in losses of over S$41 million. The syndicate allegedly operated from a scam compound in Phnom Penh and is believed to be led by Singaporean fugitive Ng Wei Liang, who reportedly recruited relatives and his girlfriend into the operation. Ng remains on the run, although three of his associates were charged under the Organised Crime Act in September.
More Arrests, But Many Still Missing
Initially, 34 suspects were on the run — including 27 Singaporeans and seven Malaysians. Two Singaporeans, Wayne Soh You Chen (27) and Brian Sie Eng Fa (32), were also charged on Nov 17 after being deported from Cambodia and Thailand.
Despite recent arrests, 31 individuals remain at large, prompting police to intensify their hunt for the remaining suspects.
Joint Operation Across Three Countries
The syndicate’s activities were disrupted during a joint operation on Sept 9, 2025, carried out by SPF and the Cambodian National Police. The latest arrest was made possible through intelligence sharing and cooperation between Singapore, Cambodia, and Malaysia — reflecting growing regional collaboration against scam networks that exploit international borders.
Legal Consequences Under the Organised Crime Act
Goh is set to be charged on Nov 18 for facilitating the commission of a serious offence and aiding the illegal activities of a locally linked criminal group. If convicted, he faces up to five years in prison, a fine of up to S$100,000, or both.
Public Urged to Share Information
SPF continues to appeal for information regarding the suspects still on the run. Members of the public may contact SPF’s hotline or submit information online, with all submissions kept strictly confidential.
The arrest of Bernard Goh underscores the expanding scale and sophistication of cross-border scam operations targeting Singaporeans. For Indonesians and Singaporeans, the case highlights the rising importance of regional cooperation to dismantle criminal networks that operate seamlessly across Southeast Asia. Sustained vigilance and coordinated enforcement will be crucial in reducing scam-related losses and protecting the region’s digital safety.
Sources: Straits Times (2025) , CNA (2025)
Keywords: Scam Syndicate Cambodia, Bernard Goh Arrest, Singapore Victims Fraud, Cross-Border Police Operation, Ng Wei Liang
