An 18-year-old teenager was arrested by police within six hours after he was allegedly involved in a case of loanshark harassment at a residential unit along Canberra Link.
According to the Singapore Police Force, officers were alerted to the incident on 28 May at about 7.05pm.
The case involved the main gate and front door of a residential unit being splashed with red paint. A debtor’s note was also reportedly left outside the home.
Police investigations later identified the suspect with the help of images captured by police cameras.
Officers from the Woodlands Police Division managed to track down and arrest the teenager within six hours of the report being made.
Suspect allegedly involved in 3 other similar cases
Preliminary investigations revealed that the teenager is also believed to be linked to three other similar loanshark harassment cases that took place around Sembawang Drive and Canberra Link.
The suspect is set to be charged in court under the Moneylenders Act 2008.
Under Singapore law, first-time offenders convicted of loanshark harassment can face a fine ranging from S$5,000 to S$50,000, a jail term of up to five years, and up to six strokes of the cane.
The police reiterated that they have “zero tolerance” towards loanshark-related harassment activities.
Police warn public not to assist loansharks
Authorities also warned members of the public not to work with or assist loansharks in any way.
The Singapore Police Force stated that individuals who vandalise properties, create public nuisance, or threaten public safety will face severe consequences under the law.
Residents who suspect anyone may be involved in loansharking activities are advised to contact the police immediately by calling 999.
Loanshark harassment cases involving paint splashing, debtor notes, and property vandalism continue to be taken seriously in Singapore, especially in residential estates where such acts can cause fear and distress among residents.