Highland households are being urged to recognise the dangers of illegal money lending following a police operation in Argyll that has highlighted how loan sharks can exploit people facing financial difficulties.

A 55 year old woman was arrested in Campbeltown on Wednesday 11 November following a joint investigation involving Police Scotland and Trading Standards Scotland’s Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit.

Officers assisted with the execution of a search warrant at an address in the town following information received from members of the public.

The woman was subsequently released pending further enquiries, and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

Although the investigation took place in Campbeltown, the warning is relevant to communities across the Highlands, where anyone facing financial pressure could become vulnerable to illegal lenders.

Loan sharks typically operate without the necessary authorisation, often charging excessive interest and using intimidation or threats to recover money.

Unlike legitimate lenders, they may offer cash informally without clear agreements, leaving borrowers uncertain about how much they actually owe or how they can escape the arrangement.

Inspector Alasdair MacLaren said:

“This joint operation shows our commitment to protecting vulnerable people.

“Loan sharks target those in desperate need of help and exploit them for their own gain.

“It might seem like a short-term solution to your problems, but it could have long-term consequences and lead to you falling further into debt.

“Their tactics often involve fear and intimidation.

“We work closely with our partners to tackle this type of crime and by making a report, you could help to protect others.

“I would urge anyone with concerns or information about suspected illegal money lending to contact us via 101, or 999 in an emergency.”

The Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit works with police and other agencies to investigate suspected illegal lenders while offering confidential assistance to those affected.

Importantly, people who have borrowed money from an illegal lender are not committing an offence simply by taking out the loan.

Fiona Richardson, Chief Officer of Trading Standards Scotland, said:

“Illegal money lenders exploit people at their most vulnerable.

“By working closely with partners across Scotland, we are committed to protecting people and tackling illegal lending.

“As rising living costs put households under increasing pressure, action against lenders who target our communities is vital.

“Reports of loan sharks to the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit have increased in recent years.

“Anyone who borrows from a loan shark should know they are the victim of a crime and have done nothing wrong.

“The Illegal Money Lending team offers support and advice to anyone affected by loan sharks.

“We urge anyone who knows of an illegal money lender operating in their area to report them.”

The unit says that people affected by illegal lending can seek help without fear of being prosecuted for borrowing money, and that reports can also be made by friends, relatives or anyone concerned about another person’s circumstances.

For Highland residents, the important message is that help is available before financial difficulties develop into a cycle of debt, threats and intimidation.

Anyone concerned about illegal money lending can contact the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit confidentially on 0800 074 0878, with the helpline operating 24 hours a day.

Reports can also be submitted online through www.stopillegallending.co.uk

Anyone with information about suspected criminal activity can contact Police Scotland on 101, or dial 999 in an emergency.