'Unfortunately, the initial loan of money often results in hefty interest rates on repayments and victims find themselves in a terrifying cycle of debt and fear, as they struggle to pay money back'
The police have issued a warning over falling prey to illegal money lenders as Christmas approaches saying victims can end up dealing in drugs and sex to repay spiralling debts.
Superintendent Joanne Gibson, Strategic Partnerships, Prevention and Community Engagement said: “We know that in the run up to Christmas many families feel the pressure of spending huge amounts of money on gifts for loved ones. People who are struggling with finances may be manipulated by illegal lenders who falsely present themselves as trying to ‘help’.
“I would also encourage people to familiarise themselves with the ‘Ending the Harm’ public awareness campaign, delivered by the NI Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime, which has been successful in bringing this hidden harm to the fore. Anyone with information can contact the Police or Crimestoppers and in doing so, will help us to pursue those who are taking advantage of people in need. I would remind everyone that contact with Crimestoppers is completely anonymous.
“You can speak to one of our specially trained staff at our 24/7 UK Contact Centre on 0800 555 111 or use our anonymous online form on our website at Crimestoppers-uk.org. By speaking up anonymously when we know something, we can help protect all communities across Northern Ireland.”
PSNI Christmas Cost Of Living Real Life
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
PSNI facing £37 million funding gap, chief constable warnsJon Boutcher said the funding gap must be addressed, describing officer numbers are “dangerously low”.
Read more »
PSNI trying to identify owner of clothing found on edge of Mournes'We have conducted a thorough search of the area and made necessary enquiries but have not yet identified the owner'
Read more »
Man arrested after “sophisticated cannabis factory” discoveredPSNI says seized cannabis has estimated street value of around £200,000
Read more »
Autism NI and PSNI link up on neurodivergent good practice trainingThe aim is to understand and respond to the needs of autistic members of the public, as well as how to build an inclusive workplace
Read more »
PSNI 'becoming increasingly concerned for welfare' of missing young personPolice have asked anyone who has seen Abbey or who has information on her whereabouts to get in touch
Read more »
PSNI Launches Intensive Christmas Campaign Against Drink and Drug DrivingThe Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is running targeted day and night operations to combat drink and drug driving, coordinating with Garda in border counties. The campaign aims to reduce the risk of fatal collisions and emphasizes the importance of abstaining from alcohol and drugs when driving.
Read more »