By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 24: A 33-year-old housewife and her family have been living in fear after unknown debt collectors repeatedly showed up at her home to harass and extort her over an alleged RM192,000 debt incurred by her estranged husband.
The victim, identified as Shirley, said her husband left her two years ago, and she currently lives with her working parents and her nine-year-old daughter.
According to her, the nightmare began on July 8 when her estranged husband suddenly phoned her to warn that individuals were coming to her house.
Shortly after the call that evening, two unknown cars carrying unfamiliar men arrived at her residence.
The men claimed that her husband owed them RM192,000 and demanded that she, as his wife, settle the debt by selling her house, her cars, and her personal belongings.
They initially demanded an immediate payment of RM1,000 from her, but after she explained that she could not afford it, she handed over RM500 to the suspects.
The collectors even threatened to send Indonesian workers to stay at her house until the entire debt was fully paid off.
Shirley then lodged a police report on July 9.
However, the debt collectors returned on the same day for a second time, demanding the same remaining sum.
Fearing for her family’s safety, Shirley did not go outside and instead contacted the police Investigating Officer (IO), prompting police to arrive at her home, though the suspects had fled prior to their arrival.
Highlighting the case during a press conference, Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Public Complaints Bureau chief Milton Foo said debt collectors must pursue legitimate legal channels for debt recovery rather than resorting to harassment, extortion, and intimidation tactics against innocent family members.
“If there are debts owed and payable, please look for the rightful person through proper legal procedures—whether by issuing a letter of demand, filing a lawsuit in court, or serving a writ of summons.
“Do not resort to criminal acts such as harassment, extortion, or threats. Demanding that family members sell their home or belongings for a debt they did not incur is completely illegal,” Foo asserted.
He also commended the police and the investigating officer for their swift response upon receiving Shirley’s call, while assuring the victim that the bureau will continue to stand by her. — DayakDaily
