Another employer harassed after maid borrows over $3,000 from 9 loan sharks

An employer was shocked to discover that her maid had borrowed over $3,000 from loan sharks after facing threats and harassment.

Ms Yan, 49, told Shin Min Daily News that she hired Carly, 38, four years ago and have always found the Indonesian maid's work performance satisfactory. She also described Carly as hardworking and responsible.

"It was at the start of this year when she suddenly appeared distracted at work and was always on her phone," Ms Yan recalled.

"When I questioned her, she claimed that her brother was hospitalised and needed $3,000 for surgery, so I lent her the money."

Thinking that Carly's financial problems had been resolved, Mrs Yan did not expect to receive a call from a stranger on April 26, requesting Carly to call him back.

Ms Yan said: "I asked Carly about it and she claimed that she did not know the man. Three days later, I received texts from the same number, saying that my maid owed money. He also shared her work permit as well as conversations between Carly and me."

It was only when Ms Yan brought Carly to the police station to lodge a report then did she realise that her maid had borrowed money from loan sharks.

The harassment escalated in the next few days, with the man sending videos of homes being set on fire and splashed with red paint. The loan shark even came to Mrs Yan's doorstep, took photos and sent them to her.

Ms Yan said: "When we questioned Carly, she admitted to having borrowed about $3,150 from at least nine loan sharks. She has repaid more than $1,000 so far, but is still nearly $2,000 in debt."

Although the incident has left her uneasy, Mr Yan said she has no plans to send Carly back home to Indonesia.

She added: "Carly is kind by nature and I hope to give her a chance. If the loan shark dares to come to our door again, I will proceed to call the police."

When interviewed, Carly told Shin Min that her husband wanted to work in Brunei and needed money for agent fees, flight tickets and accomodation. He frequently called Carly, asking her to send money home.

Another maid from her hometown introduced Carly to the loan sharks.

Carly said in tears: "I didn't know they are illegal and that it would turn out like this, or I would definitely have not borrowed from loan sharks."

She also expressed regret over the incident and apologised to her employers, adding that she was willing to use salary advances to repay her debt.

Ms Yan, who considers the matter closed, said: "I just hope that my experience can be a reminder to other employers. Agencies should also counsel their maids and tell them not to borrow money via illegal means."

In response to media queries, the police confirm that a report was lodged and investigations are ongoing.

Ms Yan is not alone in her experience.

It was reported earlier this month that a maid employed by the late founder of Tanjong Rhu Pau had borrowed from loan sharks and then fled home to Indonesia, leaving behind a $1,000 debt.