A crane operator who assaulted a loanshark runner for allegedly harassing him was jailed for six months on Monday.

Tan Chee How, 39, had admitted to using a hammer to hit Mr Albert Ong Swee Thye, 33, and punching and kicking him on his face and body at the void deck of Block 943, Hougang Street 92, on Feb 6,

He also admitted to having dangerous fireworks in his home and discharging one rocket firework on Feb 24 to mark Chinese New Year. He was fined a total of $3,000 for these offences.

A district court heard that the victim was informed by one "Ah Guan'', who owed him $3,300, that Tan would be passing him the money on his behalf. But Mr Ong did not manage to speak to Tan or arranged for a meeting with him.

On Feb 6, Tan called Mr Ong and arranged to meet that evening. A dispute broke out. Tan claimed that he did not owe anybody money and was unhappy with the victim for harassing him. He used a hammer to hit the victim in the abdomen.

The victim put up a struggle and snatched the hammer before fleeing. Tan gave chase and caught up with Mr Ong. A scuffle broke out and the victim fell to the floor. Tan punched and kicked him repeatedly on his face and head area.

The victim also had his cellphone and identity card taken away from him. These were subsequently recovered from Tan by the police.

Three other charges, including breaching a personal protection order and criminal intimidation, were taken into consideration.