Indian-Origin Man Jailed for Cheating Contractors in Singapore
An Indian-origin individual, Arivalagan Muthusamy, 40, has been sentenced to two and a half years in jail for defrauding multiple contractors across Singapore. The fraudulent activities, which took place over approximately six months, involved cheating at least 61 victims out of about SGD 310,000 (approximately USD 240,000).
Details of the Fraud Scheme
Between late 2022 and mid-2023, Arivalagan targeted contractors under the guise of representing building management for various commercial properties. He solicited payments from these contractors, requesting sums described as security deposits or advance fees before commencing maintenance work.
To facilitate the scam, Arivalagan provided the contractors with bank account details purportedly belonging to the building management. Employing multiple mobile phone numbers and bank accounts to cover his tracks, he enlisted the help of two accomplices to manage these accounts. This organized approach enabled him to execute numerous fraudulent transactions successfully.
Legal Proceedings and Sentence
Arivalagan was apprehended on July 4, 2023, and charged the following day. He pled guilty to 21 out of 62 charges related to cheating. Prosecutors emphasized the scale of his offenses and the involvement of a network supporting money mule activities, which are offenses in themselves and factor into sentencing.
In addition to the jail sentence for the current offenses, Arivalagan is required to serve an extra 88 days in prison due to reoffending while serving remission for previous property-related crimes dating back to 2010.
Key Facts
- Number of victims: At least 61 contractors
- Amount defrauded: Approximately SGD 310,000 (USD 240,000)
- Sentence: 2.5 years imprisonment plus 88 days additional for prior offences
- Period of offenses: Late 2022 to mid-2023
Conclusion
This case highlights the importance of vigilance among contractors and commercial entities regarding fraudulent claims of representation and payment collection. Authorities continue to enforce stringent penalties to deter similar scams and protect businesses within Singapore.
