A 45-year-old man has been arrested for his suspected involvement in a case of loanshark harassment. The police were alerted to the incident on the night of March 4, 2025, at about 8.55 pm, after receiving a report of harassment at a residential unit along Tampines Street 22.
Upon arrival, officers found that the main gate of the unit had been secured with a bicycle lock, and a debtor’s note had been pasted on it. Such tactics are commonly used in illegal moneylending cases to intimidate borrowers into repayment.
Following investigations and with the aid of police camera footage, officers from Bedok Police Division were able to establish the suspect’s identity and arrested him the following day on March 5. Preliminary investigations suggest that the man may be linked to other similar harassment cases across the island.
During his arrest, the police seized several items believed to have been used in the harassment, including a mobile phone, a yellow bicycle lock, a red marker, and masking tape. These items are being examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
The suspect is set to be charged in court on March 6, 2025, under the Moneylenders Act 2008. Under Singapore law, first-time offenders convicted of loanshark harassment face severe penalties, including a fine ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, imprisonment for up to five years, and caning of up to six strokes.
The authorities have reiterated their firm stance against loanshark harassment, emphasizing that such acts of intimidation, property vandalism, and disruptions to public peace will not be tolerated. The police have assured the public that they will take strict enforcement action against those involved in illegal moneylending activities.
Members of the public are strongly advised to avoid dealing with unlicensed moneylenders, as doing so can lead to serious legal consequences. The police have also urged individuals not to assist loansharks in any way, including carrying out harassment activities on their behalf.
Anyone with information on illegal moneylending operations is encouraged to report it immediately. The public can call ‘999’ for urgent police assistance or submit information anonymously through the police hotline.
Authorities continue to monitor and crack down on loanshark-related offenses, ensuring that such activities do not threaten the safety and security of residents.
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