PETALING JAYA: Police here have identified a scam involving the sale of an organic herbal oil that is allegedly used in the production of Covid-19 vaccines.

       Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) director Comm Datuk Mohd Kamarudin Md Din said that five complaints have been lodged, with losses amounting to around RM128,498.

       "According to our investigations, the scammers would email companies regarding the sale of the precatoria oil. Those interested would then be told to make payments to a mule account for the purpose of purchasing organic samples to allegedly produce vaccines,” said Comm Mohd Kamarudin.

       "However, once payment has been made, the scammers would be uncontactable and the supposed samples would never be received," he added in a statement on Friday (Aug 27).

       Comm Mohd Kamarudin said it is possible that scam syndicates are making use of the pandemic to reap profits for themselves.

       "As such, the police advise all to always be careful and attentive about these matters. The government will always give priority to any initiative that combats Covid-19, be it the administration of vaccines or vaccine research,” he said.

       "Individuals or companies that wish to be involved should refer to the relevant government bodies before making any decisions," added Comm Mohd Kamarudin.

       He also urged all to share any information of such scams to the police so that action can be taken.