Kuantan district police chief Wan Zahari Wan Busu said the suspects were aged between 29 and 45.

They are believed to have been involved in spray-painting houses, locking gates, splashing or writing threats in paint or markers of about 31 houses of those who owed an Ah Long known as “Jimmy”.

“The suspects were arrested in Permatang Badak and Sungai Isap on Thursday. They are believed to have been involved in illegal activities since last year.

“Police also confiscated several items like red paint, thinner and plastic bags filled with red paint. We also seized items like chains and iron handles which we believe were used to lock houses of victims,” he told reporters here today.

Wan Zahari added that all the suspects had previous drug-related offences and would be remanded until Sunday.