A former senior employee of Soo Kee Jewellery has admitted to submitting falsified invoices totalling nearly $300,000 over a six-year period.
The case involves 48-year-old Loh King Foh, who held the role of senior regional visual merchandiser for Soo Kee Jewellery, which includes associated companies Moneymax Jewellery, SK Jewellery and Love & Co.
Forged Invoices and Fictitious Claims
Between April 2013 and March 2019, Loh submitted 238 forged documents to claim reimbursements for non-existent purchases. On 10 October, he pleaded guilty to six counts of forgery for the purpose of cheating. A further 18 similar charges will be considered during sentencing on 30 October.
In his role, Loh was responsible for equipping stores with props and display equipment. He was authorised to make purchases directly and submit reimbursement claims, which did not always require the store or purpose to be listed on the invoice.
According to Deputy Public Prosecutor Tan Jun Ya, Loh obtained blank invoice templates with company stamps from shop owners who were unaware of how the documents would be used. He completed the invoices with fabricated items and amounts before submitting them for reimbursement.
Discovery and Internal Checks
The matter came to attention in March 2019 when Moneymax Jewellery identified repeated claims for acrylic materials at high cost. On contacting the vendors listed on the invoices, the company found discrepancies, including claims for items not sold by the vendors.
Following internal checks, Soo Kee management questioned Loh, who admitted to the misconduct. He also forged the signature of an approving officer on some claims. No restitution has been made.
Prosecution Seeks Custodial Sentence
DPP Tan stated that the offences involved “premeditated, with careful planning and execution to deceive the companies”. He described the conduct as persistent, with Loh continuing the scheme over several years. The prosecution is seeking a custodial sentence of between 43 and 49 months.
Each charge of forgery for the purpose of cheating carries a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine.
Relevance to the Jewellery Trade
The case underscores the need for adequate oversight in procurement and reimbursement processes to reduce the risk of internal fraud.
Jewellery businesses should consider reviewing invoice verification procedures and employee purchasing controls to reduce vulnerability to similar incidents.
