SCAMS involving face masks have resulted in losses amounting to RM4.2 million, said Defence Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

The senior minister advised the public to be wary as the scams were carried out both online as well as in person.

“Police will take action. (At the same time) we ask the public to be careful,” he said during a live telecast from Putrajaya today.

Ismail said bulk face masks buyers must check the sellers’ bank accounts first before making any purchases.

He said the bank account checks can be done at Semakmule at the Commercial Crime Investigation Department.

The status of the seller can also be checked at www.biztrust.ssm.com.my.

Meanwhile, Ismail said police and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission have opened 229 investigation papers into fake Covid-19 news, compared with 220 investigation papers the day prior.

Of that number, 161 cases are currently under investigation, while 24 cases have been brought to court. Thirteen people have pleaded guilty while 11 have been given warning notices. A further 33 cases were categorised “no further action”.

Meanwhile, Ismail said the supply of food, including vegetables, remains sufficient.

“Overall, the supply is enough to fulfil demand. The Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry, as well as the Agriculture and Food Industries Ministry are always monitoring food supplies, especially rice and other necessities, nationwide.”

“The Agriculture Ministry has assured that supplies such as vegetables are more than adequate.”

He said the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry has carried out monitoring of 25 food supplies at 1,203 business premises, including 925 grocery stores, 247 wholesalers and 31 factories. – April 20, 2020.