A 69-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of illegal money lending and money laundering offences.
A combined effort from the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) and the Met Police led to the woman being arrested at a Romford address on February 28.
A search was subsequently made of the property, before the woman was taken into custody and questioned. She was later released under investigation.
Cllr Ray Morgon, leader of Havering Council, said: “Illegal money lenders often start by being very friendly and seem to offer the answer to people’s problems, but that soon changes as the debt and interest charges grow. We encourage everyone to follow the Illegal Money Lending Team’s advice and to report any suspected loan sharks.
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“As the cost of living puts household budgets under increasing pressure, it is important to get advice about problem debt as early as possible. There are organisations throughout the county that can help free of charge such as Citizens Advice, Stepchange Debt Charity and National Debtline.”
Anyone with concerns about illegal money lending can contact the Stop Loan Sharks 24/7 Helpline in confidence on 0300 555 2222 or access support online at www.stoploansharks.co.uk. Live chat is available on the website between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Havering residents can get advice and support with the cost of living via https://www.havering.gov.uk/costofliving
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