Singaporean brothers kidnapped in Penang for $350,000 ransom

SINGAPORE - Two Singaporean brothers have escaped unscathed after a kidnapping ordeal in Penang, according to a police statement released today (Feb 25).

Police here were alerted to a case of extortion at about 11pm on Monday (Feb 22). A 29-year-old woman was asked to pay a ransom of US$250,000 (S$350,700) via an unknown Malaysian mobile phone number for the release of her 28-year-old fiance, who had left for Penang on Sunday (Feb 21) for a business trip with his brother, 27.

The Singapore Police Force then worked with the Royal Malaysia Police to locate the two men.

Investigations led Malaysian police to raid a hotel in Penang. The victims were rescued, unhurt, and four Malaysian men were arrested.

Four Singaporean suspects, a man and three women aged between 26 and 54, were also arrested later in connection with the case.

No ransom was delivered.

If convicted, the suspects face a jail term of up to five years as well as caning.

huizhen@sph.com.sg