Bukit Batok flat found locked with bicycle lock, debtor notes left behind: 2 men arrested

Two men, aged 24 and 28, were arrested for suspected loansharking activities after a Bukit Batok flat was found locked with a bicycle lock, with debtor notes left behind.

The police said they were alerted on Tuesday (May 31) to a case of loanshark harassment at a residential unit along Bukit Batok West Avenue 8.

Through ground enquiries and with the aid of images from police cameras, officers from Jurong Police Division established the identity of the two men and arrested them on Wednesday. Preliminary investigations revealed that the duo are believed to be involved in other similar cases.

The pair will be charged in court on Thursday under the Moneylenders Act 2008. First-time offenders are liable to a fine between $5,000 and $50,000, with jail of up to five years and caning of up to six strokes.

The police said they have zero tolerance for loanshark harassment activities, adding: "Those who deliberately vandalise properties, cause annoyance and disruptions to public safety, peace and security, will be dealt with severely in accordance with the law.

"Members of the public are advised to stay away from loansharks and not work with or assist the loansharks in any way."

You may call the police at '999' or the X-Ah Long hotline at 1800-924-5664 if you suspect or know of anyone who could be involved in loansharking activities.