SINGAPORE: Police said they have arrested two suspects whom they believe are behind a series of kidnap hoax scams.

Responding to a call from a 44-year-old potential victim on Tuesday morning, police staked out the ransom drop-off point at Punggol Park.

Two men who showed up to collect the envelope, which was left under a tree, were immediately arrested at about 3pm. Nearly S$16,000 in cash, three mobile phones and other items were found on them.

In a statement, the police said the two are also believed to be involved in at least four similar successful cases using a similar ruse in the past week.

Both suspects will be charged in court for cheating and if convicted, could be jailed up to ten years.

The police has advised the public to be cautious if they receive phone calls stating that a family member has been kidnapped and will be harmed if money is not handed over. This could be a scam and victims should remain calm and call the police immediately. - CNA/vm