MIRI: A woman was among three locals arrested for their alleged involvement in an unlicensed moneylending business.
Miri police chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu confirmed that the suspects aged between 30 and 47, were picked up in an operation codenamed ‘Op Vulture’.
“The suspects are believed to be members of an ‘Ah Long’ syndicate that have been active in conducting their unlicensed lending business in the district since May this year.
“During the arrest, the police managed to seize a vehicle and other items used for the unlicensed activity and for splashing paint,” he said.
The suspects are being remanded for three days to facilitate investigations under Section 5(2) of the Moneylenders Act 1951 for operating an unlicensed moneylending business and Section 507 of the Penal Code for criminal intimidation.
Under Section 5(2) of the Moneylenders Act 1951, the suspects are liable to be fined up to RM1 million or sentenced to jail for a term up to five years or both at once, upon conviction.
Meanwhile, under Section 507 of the Penal Code, it carries a jail sentence for a term up to two years or a fine or both, upon conviction.