he is using his network and resources right after quitting his job to con people and escape with as many stolen funds as he can.

Refunding to few customers only serve to buy him time and also a trick to boost his legitimacy for further conjobs.

don't give up fighting back for your money.

There is always risk to online trading, regardless of how trustable a seller may seem, just like any normal appearing person may commit crime anytime as their actions in future are not solely determined by their actions in past.

my advice for purchasing of value > rm500 in online forum manual bank transfer especially to not well known stores or sellers

- try to buy items worth less from them first ; only then you know they can be trusted.

never buy in multiple units since a con will make you lose all your money for nothing.