GEORGE TOWN, June 17 – The Penang police have taken action against illegal money lending activities by detaining 38 individuals in a special operation targeting loan sharks. The arrests, which occurred between June 5 and yesterday, were part of a major crackdown to combat the menace of loan sharks in Penang and neighboring states. State police chief Khaw Kok Chin disclosed that the detained individuals consisted of 34 men and four women, ranging in age from 21 to 72.
These individuals were found to be involved in several old cases that were under investigation, and their arrests will allow them to be brought to court to face charges. Khaw Kok Chin, when questioned about the possible connection between the arrested individuals and the criminal threats made against him, stated that the matter is still under investigation. The police have been taking the letter of criminal intimidation against the Penang police chief seriously and are actively tracking down the suspects involved.
All 38 individuals who have been detained are being investigated under Section 5(2) of the Moneylenders Act 1951. This concerted effort by the Penang police demonstrates their commitment to eradicating the illegal activities of loan sharks in the state. The Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani, has reported that the threatening letter received by Khaw contained six pieces of ‘hell money’ banknotes. The letter demanded that the Penang police contingent cease their aggressive actions against the syndicate of unlicensed moneylenders operating in the state.
The police are taking these criminal threats seriously and are determined to apprehend those responsible. The crackdown on loan sharks is part of a broader initiative to protect the community from the harmful effects of illegal money lending. The authorities are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the public by eliminating the influence of loan shark syndicates. The ongoing efforts to combat loan sharks reflect the determination of law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and security in Penang.
