Instagram page @singapore_incidents posted a video yesterday (9 April) showing a housing unit at an undisclosed location engulfed in flames after allegedly being set on fire by loanshark(s).
Not much information about the incident or location was revealed by the netizen who posted the video.
The affected unit could be seen in the video with red paints splashed on the walls outside the home, with the front door and metal grilles being engulfed in flames.
A graffiti that appears to be a message to the debtor could be seen scrawled on the walls beside the burning unit, and although the words are unintelligible, the characters “O$P$” could be clearly seen written at the top of the message.
Netizens’ comments
- My goodness, ah long so bold these days! So scary.
- I’m wondering are those loan Sharks challenging Singapore Police Forces.
- Ah Long do this also no use, HDB fire rated door last for 30mins de, then the fire also not big enough to burn down the door. Lol
- Maybe stop videoing and faster call 995???
- Arson can be a justification for homicide if someone else died from the fire so Arson can be punishable by death sentence even if it is done indirectly to whomever is targeted for that damages to the apartment.
- In first place, why borrow from loan shark?
Potential penalties
Under the Moneylenders Act 2008:
- The offence of carrying on or assisting in a business of unlicensed moneylending carries an imprisonment term of up to four years, a fine between $30,000 and $300,000, and caning of up to six strokes.
- The offence of acting on behalf of an unlicensed moneylender, committing or attempting to commit any acts of harassment carries an imprisonment term of up to five years, a fine between $5,000 and $50,000, and caning between three and six strokes.
- The offence of providing false contact information to obtain loans from unlicensed moneylenders carries an imprisonment for a term of up to 12 months.
The Police will continue to take tough enforcement action against those involved in the unlicensed moneylending business, regardless of their roles, and ensure that they face the full brunt of the law. This includes taking action against those who open or give away their bank accounts to aid unlicensed moneylenders.
Unlicensed moneylenders are increasingly using text messaging or online platforms to send unsolicited loan advertisements. Members of the public are reminded not to reply or respond to such advertisements and to report these messages as spam.
Members of the public are also advised to stay away from unlicensed moneylenders and not to work with or assist them in any way. Members of 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 unlicensed moneylending activities.