A recent crackdown by Hong Kong police led to the arrest of 12 individuals involved in illegal debt collection activities, where they were accused of using tactics like splashing red paint on buildings and making threatening phone calls to recover outstanding loan payments.
The suspects were connected to 18 cases of criminal damage and intimidation, totaling HK$5.4 million in Wong Tai Sin and Sai Kung. Some suspects were paid up to HK$1,000 each to carry out these crimes.
The police operation resulted in the detention of eight men and four women, aged 27 to 63, on charges of criminal damage and intimidation, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. The suspects included a delivery worker, a waiter, and a driver.
Inspector Chow Chun-hin warned of potential misuse of debtors’ personal information for illegal activities and emphasized ongoing investigations to prevent further crimes.
Overall, the police urge vigilance against debt-related crimes and assure the public of continued efforts to maintain law and order in the city.