The Police have arrested a 21-year-old Malaysian man for his suspected involvement in a series of loanshark harassment.
Between 22 and 30 August 2019, the Police received multiple reports of loanshark harassment islandwide. A vehicle belonging to an innocent victim was splashed with paint and the gates of several residential units were chained with bicycle locks. Loanshark-related notes were also found affixed to the said vehicle and units.
Following the reports, officers from the Criminal Investigation Department and Tanglin Police Division mounted a joint operation and arrested the man at Woodlands Checkpoint on 3 September 2019. Preliminary investigations revealed that the man is believed to be involved in at least six cases of loanshark harassment.
The man will be charged in court on 5 September 2019 with offences under the Moneylenders Act (Revised Edition 2010). Under the Moneylenders Act (Revised Edition 2010), first time offenders found guilty of loanshark harassment shall be fined not less than $5,000 and not more than $50,000 with mandatory imprisonment of up to five years, and mandatory caning of up to six strokes.
The Police have zero tolerance for loanshark harassment. Those who deliberately vandalise properties or cause annoyance and disruption to 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
04 September 2019 @ 10:05 PM