A 24-year-old man has been arrested for his alleged involvement in a spate of loanshark harassment cases that took place islandwide on 16 July 2025. The swift police action resulted in his capture within six hours of the initial reports, thanks to coordinated investigations and surveillance footage.
Red Paint and Debtor Notes: A Trail of Intimidation
Between 4pm and 11pm on the same day, the Singapore Police Force received multiple reports of loanshark-related harassment. Several residential units across the island were targeted—main gates and doors were splashed with red paint, and handwritten notes intended to intimidate or shame alleged debtors were left behind.
Such acts are a common tactic used by illegal moneylenders to harass borrowers and pressure them into repayment. In addition to damaging property, these acts often cause distress to innocent residents and threaten the peace and safety of the community.
Arrest Within Six Hours
Officers from the Ang Mo Kio Police Division sprang into action, conducting intensive follow-up investigations and reviewing footage from police-installed surveillance cameras. They quickly identified the suspect and arrested him within six hours of the first report. Preliminary investigations suggest that the man may be linked to at least eight similar cases of loanshark harassment.
The suspect will face charges in court on 18 July 2025 under the Moneylenders Act 2008.
Harsh Penalties Under the Law
If convicted, a first-time offender of loanshark harassment can face:
- A fine of between S$5,000 and S$50,000
- Imprisonment of up to five years
- Caning of up to six strokes
These tough penalties reflect the serious view the authorities take on loanshark-related activities, which disrupt public order and threaten the well-being of residents.
Police: Zero Tolerance for Loanshark Harassment
The Singapore Police Force has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on illegal moneylending and harassment. In a firm warning, they stated that those who choose to vandalise property or threaten the peace will be dealt with severely under the law.
The public is reminded to avoid engaging with loansharks and to refrain from assisting them in any capacity. Anyone with information on suspected loansharking activities is urged to contact the Police at 999 or submit a report via the i-Witness portal.