Small business owners in Singapore are suffering significant losses from a new type of scam where individuals impersonating soldiers or government officials place large orders and then disappear. On September 14, the Singapore Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) issued an official warning about these fraudulent activities, stating that they have reported seven confirmed cases to the police.

Two recent incidents have particularly shocked the local community. Kiki Florist, a flower shop on Bukit Timah Road, suffered a "bitter loss" after receiving one of its largest orders of the year. On September 8, a man identifying himself as a soldier placed a bulk order for 150 small bouquets and four extra-large ones, totaling over $1,000 (approximately ₩1 million KRW).

The man disappeared when asked for an upfront payment but later reappeared, promising to pay in cash. With good intentions, Kiki Florist worked through the night, but long after the promised pickup time, the man canceled the order, citing an excuse that "the full 150 bouquets weren't ready." As a result, the shop not only suffered a loss of $1,100 (approximately ₩1.1 million KRW) but also had to turn away other legitimate customers. Fortunately, after the news broke, a kind customer bought all the remaining flowers, providing great comfort. However, the owner decided not to accept any further orders, stating they would not seek additional profit.

Prior to this incident, a biryani restaurant at Tiong Bahru Market, 'Muhammad Shahjahan Pahjath Muslim Food Paradise,' experienced a similar scam. The owner was scammed by someone who identified himself as a military official and ordered 150 packs of chicken and mutton biryani, but no one showed up at the agreed-upon time, resulting in a substantial loss.

In response to these serial scams, MINDEF stated on its official Facebook account, "The SAF (Singapore Armed Forces) is aware of several fraudulent bulk order cases by individuals impersonating SAF personnel." It added, "No evidence has been found to link these individuals to the SAF, and we are taking this matter seriously."

This scam, which impersonates soldiers or government agencies, is particularly malicious as it targets small business owners who operate on trust. Experts recommend that business owners take thorough precautions, such as requesting an upfront or deposit payment for large orders. They also advise being cautious and directly verifying suspicious orders with the relevant agency or unit.

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