KOTA KINABALU: A 61-year-old local man was arrested for suspected cheating by charging a “fee” of RM20 for people to get the Covid-19 vaccination.

       Semporna district police chief Supt Farhan Lee Abdullah said at least 16 people were believed to have been cheated by the man.

       “He was picked up at the children’s park in the town at about 2.35pm on Saturday.

       “The man took RM20 as payment from each person who wanted to be vaccinated,” he said yesterday.

       Supt Farhan Lee called on victims to come forward to assist in the investigation.

       He said they could contact investigating officer Sjn Mohamad Hayazi Hariff at 017-895 4967 or 089-782 020 or go to the nearest police station.

       “The police are taking the matter seriously as the vaccines are provided free of charge by the government,” he added.

       Covid-19 vaccination is free for citizens and non-citizens and the government has given the assurance that no action would be taken against undocumented foreigners turning up for vaccination.