A man who borrowed £1,000 from dissident-linked loan sharks in Derry has been forced to hand over his car and still owes five times the original debt, Belfast Live understands.
The claim emerged as Foyle MP Colum Eastwood issued a warning that loan sharks linked to dissident republicans in the city are preying on vulnerable people in the run-up to Christmas.
Sources on the ground say people are frightened of the "repercussions" if they can't pay, including the possibility their "legs could be done in, or worse".
Read more: Derry Girl's star Siobhán McSweeney announced as host of RTÉ’s The Traitors Ireland
Read more: NI's first ever paramedic graduates celebrate on big day in Derry
A source said people also fear they could be told to store weapons if they find themselves in debt.
SDLP MP Colum Eastwood has spoken out about the problem, warning that he has told by a "significant number" of people about the scourge of dissident-linked loan sharks in the city.
"I have been approached by a significant number of people who are reporting that dissident-linked loan sharks have been pressuring vulnerable people in Derry," the Foyle MP said.
"These people will take any opportunity to intimidate, threaten and draw others into criminality. I am urging people not to place themselves in that position."
He added: “This is a worrying development and I am asking people to be vigilant. I would appeal to everyone, no matter how difficult things look, please do not to turn to these criminals. I know it may seem like the only option in a difficult moment but these people will make your life a misery if you can’t pay them back. And they make it their mission to make sure you can’t pay them back in full.
“If you are finding things difficult - please reach out to advice services, charities or my office for additional support. There are people in the city who are here to help you and want to support you and your family. We have already received reports of intimidation, theft and threats against people who have taken money from these people. I am raising this worrying trend with police who have a role to play in disrupting the networks responsible."
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.
English (United States) ·