In a recent incident of loanshark harassment, the Police have arrested a 38-year-old man for his suspected involvement in the case. On 13 March 2024, at approximately 6:40 pm, the Police received a report of loanshark harassment at a residential unit along Bedok North Street 4.
The unit had green paint splashed on it, and a debtor’s note was pasted on the gate.
Thanks to follow-up investigations and the use of images from Police cameras, officers from Bedok and Jurong Police Divisions were able to identify and apprehend the man within four hours. A mobile phone was also seized as evidence. Preliminary investigations suggest that the man may be involved in other cases of loanshark harassment.
The man is expected to be charged in court on 15 March 2024 under the Moneylenders Act 2008. If convicted, first-time offenders found guilty of loanshark harassment can face fines ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, imprisonment of up to five years, and up to six strokes of the cane.
The Police have a zero-tolerance policy for loanshark harassment activities and will take strict action against those who engage in such behavior. Those who deliberately vandalize properties, cause disturbances, and disrupt public safety and security will be punished severely according to the law.
Members of the public are advised to avoid engaging with loansharks and not to work with or assist them in any way. If anyone suspects or knows of anyone involved in loansharking activities, they can contact the Police at ‘999’ or the X-Ah Long hotline at 1800-924-5664. By reporting such activities, the public can help to prevent further incidents of loanshark harassment and keep their communities safe.