Two Women Arrested in Singapore for Loanshark Harassment

The Singapore Police Force (SPF) has arrested two 30-year-old women for their suspected involvement in multiple cases of loanshark harassment across the island.

Paint Vandalism and Threats

The arrests came after police were alerted on 17 August 2025 to a case of harassment at a residential unit along Canberra Road. The unit’s front door and gate had been splashed with red paint, and a debtor’s note was left at the scene — a classic intimidation tactic associated with illegal moneylending.

Officers from the Woodlands and Bedok Police Divisions swiftly launched ground enquiries and reviewed images captured by police cameras. Within a day, they managed to track down and arrest the suspects on 18 August 2025.

Preliminary investigations suggest the two women were involved in at least four other similar harassment cases reported in different parts of Singapore.

Severe Penalties Under the Law

Both suspects will be charged in court on 20 August 2025 under the Moneylenders Act 2008. For first-time offenders, the law prescribes a fine ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, imprisonment of up to five years, and caning of up to six strokes.

Police stressed that they have zero tolerance for loanshark activities. Acts of vandalism, threats, or harassment not only damage property but also endanger public peace and security. Anyone caught aiding or abetting loansharks will face stern action.

Public Advisory Against Illegal Moneylending

Authorities once again reminded the public to avoid dealing with unlicensed moneylenders, regardless of how tempting their offers may seem. Borrowing from loansharks often traps individuals in spirals of escalating debt and harassment, putting families and neighbours at risk.

Members of the public who suspect loanshark activities are urged to call the Police Hotline at 999. Those with non-urgent information may also submit reports through the SPF’s i-Witness portal.