The Singapore Police have arrested a 32-year-old woman and a 27-year-old man for their suspected involvement in two separate cases of loanshark harassment. Both incidents involved vandalism and intimidation at residential units, with the suspects leaving graffiti and red paint at the victims’ homes.
First Case: Canberra Street Harassment
On 22 December 2024, the Police responded to a report of loanshark harassment at a residential unit along Canberra Street. The main gate was sprayed with red paint, secured with a bicycle lock, and accompanied by graffiti on the adjacent wall. A debtor’s note was also left behind.
Investigations, aided by Police cameras, led to the identification and arrest of a 32-year-old woman on 24 December 2024. A debtor’s note was seized as evidence.
Second Case: Woodlands Drive 44 Harassment
On 24 December 2024, another loanshark harassment case was reported at two residential units along Woodlands Drive 44, where their main doors and gates were splashed with red paint.
Police from the Woodlands Division acted swiftly, arresting a 27-year-old man later that day. Five cans of paint were confiscated as evidence.
Legal Action and Penalties
Both suspects will face charges in court on 26 December 2024 under the Moneylenders Act 2008. First-time offenders for loanshark harassment face a fine between $5,000 and $50,000, imprisonment of up to five years, and caning of up to six strokes.
Police Statement and Advice
The Police emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards loanshark harassment, warning that such actions disrupt public safety and will be met with severe legal consequences. They urged the public to avoid engaging with loansharks and report any suspicious activity to the Police via the ‘999’ hotline.
The swift arrests underscore the Police's commitment to tackling loansharking activities and safeguarding public peace.
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