Fraudster held captive for 31 months after masterminding a $200,000 Pokémon card scam
Pokemon card scammer jailed for 31 months after tricking Pokemon fans into buying expensive cards for $200,000
In today’s generation where digital entertainment is at its peak, there was a time when fascination with tangible treasures transcend generations. People used to collect the treasure of time like action figures or Pokémon Trading Cards. Pokémon Trading cards were beloved collectibles based on the iconic Pokémon franchise. Since its origin cards have captured the hearts of millions of fans worldwide.
There are some unique cards that are auctioned for thousand bucks by Pokemon lovers. Earlier this month, a media house revealed how a rare Pokemon ‘Pichu Spikey-Eared’ card was auctioned for around $25,000. The card became one of the most lavish cards in the Pokemon franchise history.
This news sent shockwaves through the collectors as a tale of the illustrious Pichu Spikey-Eared Pokémon card that shattered records for being the most expensive. Recently, a scammer was caught in fraud of more than $200,000.
Scammer held for biggest Pokemon fraud
The trader was caught on 23rd June 2023 in Singapore. In a recent development, the trader has been handed a jail sentence of 31 months after accepting her guilt. The trader is identified as Koh Jia Wen and was involved in fraudulent activities that resulted in significant financial losses for many people who ordered Pokemon cards from their firm.
Singapore jails woman for cheating Pokemon card buyers out of US$162,000 https://t.co/CybabF3ilf
— South China Morning Post (@SCMPNews) June 23, 2023
The total value of the Pokemon cards involved in the scam amounts to over $200,000. With their vibrant artwork, strategic gameplay, and nostalgic appeal, these cards have become much more than mere game pieces—they have evolved into cherished artifacts and valuable investments.
Previous scams of Pokemon Fraudstar
Although this was not the first time Koh Jia Wen was caught in the fraud. Previously, in 2021, an avid Pokemon enthusiast placed an order for 74 cases of Pokemon cards. In each box of the card, there were packs of cards.The total transaction amount for this purchase was approximately $61,732 USD, which was transferred to the trader. Subsequently, another buyer acquired nearly $60,000 USD worth of cards from Koh in 2022.
Fortunately, the situation took a turn for the better when a vigilant member of the Pokémon TCG intervened. This effectively puts an end to the fraudulent activities before they could escalate any further. The appeal of Pokémon Trading Cards endures today as collectors continue to unearth rare gems and new generations experience the fun of Pokémon fights, serving as a monument to its ageless attraction and lasting legacy.
