The Police have arrested a 48-year-old man for his suspected involvement in three cases of loanshark harassment.
On 10 October 2023 at about 6.20pm, Police were alerted to a case of loanshark harassment at a residential unit along Woodlands Ave 6, where a debtor received a photo via WhatsApp of the unit main gate locked with a bicycle lock and pasted with a debtor’s note.
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 11 October 2023. Preliminary investigations revealed that the man is also allegedly involved in two other cases of loanshark harassment at Jurong West Street 73 and Woodlands Avenue 1. One mobile phone, a red pen, debtor’s notes and a pair of slippers believed to be worn in the commission of the offence were seized as case exhibits.
The man will be charged in court on 13 October 2023 under the Moneylenders Act 2008. For first time offenders, the offence of loanshark harassment carries a fine between $5,000 and $50,000, with imprisonment of up to five years, and 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 them 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
12 October 2023 @ 6:55 PM