The Police have arrested two men, aged 18 and 61, for their suspected involvement in two separate cases of loanshark harassment.
In the first case, on 12 August 2022, the Police received a report of loanshark harassment along Yishun Street 72, where unknown liquid was sprayed on the door and a debtor’s note was left behind. Through ground enquiries and with the aid of images from Police cameras, officers from Woodlands Police Division established the identity of the man and arrested him along Expo Drive on 18 August 2022. Preliminary investigations revealed that the man is believed to be involved in another similar case of loanshark harassment at Hougang.
In the second case, on 18 August 2022, the Police received a report of loanshark harassment at a residential unit along Marsiling Road, where the main gate was secured with a bicycle lock. Through ground enquiries and with the aid of images from Police cameras, officers from Woodlands Police Division established the identity of the man and arrested him on the same day at Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10. Preliminary investigations revealed that the man is believed to be involved in similar cases island-wide.
Both men will be charged in court on 20 August 2022 under the Moneylenders Act 2008. For first-time offenders found guilty of loanshark harassment are liable to a fine between $5,000 and $50,000, with mandatory imprisonment of up to five years and mandatory caning of up to six strokes.
The Police have zero tolerance against loanshark harassment activities. Those who deliberately vandalise properties, cause annoyance or disrupt public safety, peace and security, will be dealt with severely in accordance with the law.
Members of the public are advised to stay away from loansharks and not to work with or assist the loansharks in any way. The public can call the Police at ‘999’ or the X-Ah Long hotline at 1800-924-5664 if they suspect or know of anyone who could be involved in loansharking activities.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
19 August 2022 @ 8:50 PM