Hong Leong Finance (HLF) staff were recently commended for their quick wit and public spiritedness by the Singapore Police Force. Ms Chua Soke Ling and Mr Francis Tan from the Jurong West Branch were presented with the Public Spiritedness Award by the Jurong West NPC Commanding Officer Superintendent Tan Yong Hong, who applauded their vigilance and efforts in thwarting a love scam.

An anxious HLF customer had wanted to quickly withdraw on a $22,500 fixed deposit. Noticing how the request was made in an unusual manner, Ms Chua’s first instincts were to probe further. She then found out that the money was meant to be transferred to a stranger.

To ensure that the customer was not a victim of crime, Ms Chua immediately alerted Branch Manager Mr Francis Tan. Both of them interviewed the customer further and concluded that it might be a love scam. Ms Chua and Mr Tan then put the customer’s withdrawal request on hold and immediately contacted the next-of-kin, who subsequently reported the incident to the police. The scam was successfully foiled.

During the award presentation, HLF First Vice President and Head, Branches, Ms Pauline Tan shared this exemplary story with attendees on how various HLF branches and employees can help to reach out and educate the public on the importance of scam prevention. She also praised the alert and prompt actions of Ms Chua and Mr Tan.

With strong affirmation, Jurong West NPC also shared that they looked forward to forging even stronger partnership with HLF in preventing, deterring and detecting crimes in the community.