09/03/2024

Police raids massage parlours & entertainment outlets

62 people nabbed in anti-crime blitz targeting entertainment outlets, massage parlours
14 men and 48 women were arrested during the four-day operation from Feb 28 to Mar 2. FOTO:ARIFFIN JAMAR

Scantily clad women who tried to flee from an Orchard Road KTV lounge during a raid were arrested as the authorities cracked down on illicit activities at entertainment outlets and massage parlours. 
In all, 14 men and 48 women were arrested during the four-day operation from Feb 28 to March 2 and are being investigated, said the police.

The raid on March 2 at the KTV joint in Far East Shopping Centre was led by the Tanglin Police Division and was part of a five-hour blitz from 10pm. The Straits Times and other media outlets witnessed the operation, which involved more than 30 officers from the Singapore Police Force, Ministry of Manpower, Singapore Civil Defence Force, Immigration and Checkpoints Authority, and Health Sciences Authority (HSA).

At the lounge, shoes, bags and a mobile phone were strewn across the floor as the women tried to scramble out during the 11.30pm raid by plain-clothes officers. The mostly male patrons were caught by surprise when the lights were suddenly turned on at the usually dimly lit lounge. The outlet has a few private rooms with doors that have only a small glass strip allowing a look in.


Russian, Ukrainian women allegedly working illegally in Boat Quay area
Customers are asked to buy drinks for the women in exchange for their company. Each of the drinks, known as a "special", costs $100. ST PHOTO: CHONG JUN LIANG

Foreigners have been spotted working illegally in the Boat Quay area, even as the authorities continued their crackdown on illicit activities at entertainment outlets around Singapore. Women from Eastern European bloc countries including Russia, Ukraine, Georgia and Belarus have been operating outside a pub in Circular Road, where they get men to buy them a “special” margarita drink at $100 a glass.

It buys the customer time with the women, until the drink is finished. Payment is made to employees of the bar. The Straits Times understands the arrangement sometimes leads to offers of sexual services for a fee. Entertainment outlets in the area were targeted in a series of police raids in 2022 and 2023, with the authorities seeking to crack down on illicit activities including solicitation.

In 2022, before Covid-19 restrictions were fully lifted at public entertainment and nightlife joints, police checked more than 350 people and arrested dozens at outlets around town, including in the Circular Road area. Boat Quay and other entertainment districts like Little India, Geylang and Chinatown were again targeted in raids conducted between Nov 15 and Dec 18, 2023. Around 6,700 people were checked, with the authorities arresting 523, including women who had allegedly offered sexual services. More recently, the police and other agencies embarked on a four-day anti-crime blitz from Feb 28 to March 2, again targeting entertainment outlets. In total, 62 individuals were arrested, including 12 women for allegedly providing sexual services.


22 women arrested in raids of massage joints, commercial units around S'pore including Orchard

Twenty-two women, aged between 23 and 46, were arrested for offences under the Women’s Charter Act from Feb 28 to 29.

The arrests were made during enforcement operations conducted by officers from Tanglin Police Division conducted against various massage establishments and commercial units located along Balestier Road, Orchard Road, Thomson Road and River Valley Road. The raids were part of a series of enforcement operations conducted from Feb 28 to March 2, where a total of 14 men and 48 women, aged between 21 and 75, are being investigated for various offences.

Officers from Tanglin Police Division also conducted an enforcement operation against illegal gambling activities in Whampoa on Feb 28 and five men, aged between 65 and 75, were arrested for offences under the Gambling Control Act. Cash amounting to over $2,300, mobile phones and other gambling-related paraphernalia were seized as case exhibits.


Orchard area KTV raids: Hostesses & patrons arrested, some tried to escape

A total of 26 women and 3 men were arrested in a multi-agency raid on Orchard Road KTV lounges between Mar. 1 and Mar. 2, 2024.

A Shin Min Daily News reporter who observed the operation saw at least four women and two men trying to escape during a raid on one of the KTV lounges. She said they were intercepted, and the police officers asked them why they ran. The operation, jointly conducted by officers from the Tanglin Police Division, the Criminal Investigation Department, the Ministry of Manpower, the Singapore Civil Defence Force, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority and the Health Sciences Authority, started on a Friday (Mar. 1) night on around 10pm.

The Shin Min reporter and a Lianhe Zaobao reporter followed the enforcement officers to two KTV lounges, one located at Cuppage Plaza and the other at Far East Shopping Centre, where both joints were found in the basement.


Scantily-clad women offering men 'special massages' at People's Park Centre

People's Park Centre in Chinatown is apparently seedy, with a number of its shops offering "special" massages.

Shin Min Daily News was tipped off by a 55-year-old reader who said she often saw scantily-clad women at the third floor of the mall approach men who walked past their shops. A 32-year-old man the Chinese daily spoke to said he knew at least one shop on that floor offered "special" services.

He had gone into the shop for a massage. The masseuse led him to the back of the shop, closed the shopfront door and switched off the lights. The man claimed that as the woman groped him, she rattled off a list of services and their prices.


Women in revealing clothes seen waiting for customers at Jurong East massage shops

Is this Jurong East neighbourhood turning into a mini red-light district?

More than 10 massage establishments have sprung up in an HDB estate at Jurong East Avenue 1 in recent years. Some are suspected of providing sexual services.

When a Shin Min Daily News reporter visited recently, every HDB block was found to have at least several massage establishments. Women in revealing clothes and heavy make-up sat at the door waiting for customers. Whenever a man walked by, they would try to persuade him to go in.


Women allegedly solicit for customers at Upp Paya Lebar Rd: 'Want a massage? Beautiful girls inside'

Sexily-dressed women have allegedly been soliciting for customers outside massage parlours along Upper Paya Lebar Road for the past six months.

A resident, who declined to be named, told Lianhe Wanbao that massage parlours have been operating from a row of shophouses along the street for the past few years. They have never brought inconvenience to people until about half a year ago, when sexily-clad women began appearing at three of the massage parlours.

Wearing high heels, hot pants and heavy makeup, these women would stand by the roadside outside the massage parlours to 'openly solicit' for customers, said the resident. The resident also revealed that every time he walked past the massage parlours, the women would approach him and ask, 'Want a massage? There are beautiful girls inside.'


102 people investigated for involvement in vice activities after two-week-long operatio

The police arrested eighty-four women and 15 men, aged between 18 and 49, for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities following a two-week-long operation between Jan 4 and 18.

A man and two women, aged between 56 and 84, are assisting in police investigations.

Officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the seven Police Land Divisions conducted raids at 55 locations islandwide, including massage establishments, beauty salons, hotels and residential units. Mobile phones, vice-related items, more than $27,000 in cash, and one vehicle were seized.


Three women arrested for allegedly providing sexual services at massage parlours in Jurong East

Three women, aged between 27 and 46, were arrested for allegedly providing sexual services at massage parlours.

They were nabbed in an enforcement operation targeting such establishments along Jurong East Avenue 1 and Jurong East Street 21 on Nov 29 and Dec 12.

In the same operation conducted by Clementi Police Division and the Criminal Investigation Department, two massage establishments were found to be allegedly operating without a valid licence. Vice-related activities were allegedly detected at another two licenced massage establishments.


35 women and 2 men arrested in police raids: Women had advertised their sexual services online

Thirty-five women and two men, aged between 21 and 42, have been arrested for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities.

The police said in a statement that officers from Tanglin Police Division and the Criminal Investigation Department conducted raids at multiple massage establishments, hotels and commercial units at Balestier Road, Outram Road, Upper Paya Lebar, and Selegie Road. The raids were conducted between Mar 1 and Mar 23.

Investigations against the 37 individuals are ongoing. The two men arrested, aged 21 and 23, are being investigated for organising the provision of sexual services. "Vice syndicates have been leveraging technology to extend their reach and facilitate their operations with increasing sophistication," the police said.


25 people arrested at South Bridge Road, Geylang for suspected involvement in vice-related activities

Twenty-five people, aged between 18 and 38, have been arrested for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities, the police said in a statement on Friday (Mar 17).

On Mar 7, the police conducted a raid in the vicinity of South Bridge Road and arrested four women and a 31-year-old man for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities. Through further investigations, the identity of another 32-year-old man was established and he was arrested on Mar 15.

Nineteen more women were arrested in the vicinity of Geylang Lorong 12 for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities. The 32-year-old man will be charged on Friday and remanded for further investigations.


50 people under investigation after Geylang multi-agency raids
Photos of gambling paraphernalia and sex enhancement medicines seized in multi-agency raids from Sep 29 to Oct 9, 2023. (Photos: Singapore Police Force)

A total of 50 people - comprising 47 men and three women aged between 21 and 73 - are being investigated for various offences after enforcement operations in Singapore's Geylang area, the police said in a news release on Monday (Oct 23).

The 11-day multi-agency raids, led by Bedok Police Division, took place between Sep 29 and Oct 9. In one operation against illegal gambling, officers from the police and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) raided an industrial building unit along Sims Avenue.

Twenty-four men and one woman are now being probed for offences under the Gambling Control Act, and more than S$4,000 in cash and gambling paraphernalia were seized.


95 women & 2 men arrested for vice activities in Orchard KTV police raid

The police arrested two men and 95 women aged between 18 and 45 for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities at a KTV lounge.

The Singapore Police Force wrote in an Oct. 7, 2023 news release that officers from the Criminal Investigation Department and Immigration and Checkpoints Authority conducted an enforcement operation in the vicinity of Orchard Road.

They arrested a 20-year-old man and 95 women at a KTV lounge. The man was arrested for allegedly managing a place of assignation.


Prostitutes caught soliciting at coffee shop, some selling lottery tickets

As the cost of living continues to rise in Singapore, it seems that some streetwalkers are turning to other means to bring home the bacon. 
Recently, some 50 women were arrested when the police conducted a raid at Geylang Lorong 23.

A video of the incident has also been circulating online, showing the group of women being herded into a police truck which was parked near a coffee shop, reported Shin Min Daily News on Thursday (June 15). Some of the women were seen attempting to cover their faces, for fear of being recognised.

An eyewitness surnamed Yang, who works as a chef in the vicinity told the Chinese daily that the police conducted the raid on Monday evening (June 12). The 50-year-old said that these women would loiter at the coffee shop, and offer to drink with the men for a small fee. As a result, the coffee shop has also inevitably attracted many drunkards who visit the premises solely for the women. "The most I've seen is about 40 or 50 women, who are mostly from Vietnam. A small number of them are from China," Yang said. After drinking with the men, they would then solicit for sexual services, charging anywhere between $100 to $200. "After they agree on a price, they will head to a hotel room. Even though police have conducted raids in this area before, these women still return because there's a demand [for their services]," he added.


50 arrested in Geylang: After drinking with men in coffee shop, women charge up to $200 for sex

Some 50 women were arrested during a police raid in Geylang Lorong 23 on Monday evening (June 12). 

Speaking to Shin Min Daily News, an eyewitness, Yang, who works in one of the hawker stalls in the area, said the women were prostitutes who would loiter at a coffee shop and offer to drink with patrons for a small fee. "I've seen around 40 or 50 women (at the place), who are mostly from Vietnam. A small number of them are from China," Yang said.

After drinking with the men (for a fee of $20-$30), they would then solicit for sexual services, charging anywhere between $100 and $200. "After they agree on a price, they will head to a hotel room. Even though police have conducted raids in this area before, these women still return because there's a demand (for their services)," Yang added


43 people under probe after raids to clamp down on illegal activities in Geylang

A total of 31 men and 12 women, aged between 33 and 75, are being investigated for various offences following a multi-agency enforcement operation conducted from May 21 to 26.

The operation was led by Bedok Police Division and supported by officers from the Criminal Investigation Department, Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB), Health Sciences Authority (HSA), Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA), Singapore Customs, Ministry of Manpower (MOM), Land Transport Authority (LTA) and Singapore Food Agency (SFA).

The police said in a statement that it aimed to clamp down on illegal activities in Geylang, including illegal gambling, vice activities, sale of illegal sexual enhancement medication and illegal street hawking. Eighteen suspects, aged between 39 and 75, are being investigated for illegal gambling.

40 investigated in police operation: Woman advertised intimate massage package for $120

The 11 women hid their faces with their hands, surrounded by policemen in plainclothes during a raid on a massage parlour in Balestier Road.

The women, all believed to be Chinese nationals, were purportedly engaged in vice-related activities and were arrested for offences under the Women's Charter.

They wore heavy make-up and some were dressed skimpily. The Straits Times witnessed the raid on Sept 30.


175 arrested for vice in massage parlours, beauty salons and other locations over last 2 months

Ten men and 165 women, aged between 20 and 57, were arrested for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities from July 1 to Aug 31, said police.

Officers from the Criminal Investigation Department and the seven Police Land Divisions conducted coordinated raids at multiple locations island-wide, including condominiums, massage establishments, beauty salons, hotels and residential units at Lavender Street, Jurong East, Jurong West, Orchard Road, Upper Serangoon, Joo Chiat, Upper Thomson Road, Geylang and Balestier Road.

The police will spare no effort to clamp down and take tough enforcement action on vice activities especially those operating elusively online.


17-year-old among 5 women arrested at Geylang massage establishment

Five women, aged between 17 and 41, were arrested in an exempted massage establishment along Geylang Road for offences under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act 1990.

Officers from Bedok Police Division conducted the enforcement operation where a 31-year-old man is also being investigated for employing a foreigner without a valid work pass.

It was part of a multi-agency enforcement operation conducted from March 6 to 10, aimed to clamp down on illegal activities in Geylang, including illegal gambling, vice activities and sale of illegal sexual enhancement medication, among others. A total of 27 men and 23 women are being investigated for various offences.


35 women and 2 men arrested in police raids: Women had advertised their sexual services online

Thirty-five women and two men, aged between 21 and 42, have been arrested for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities.

The police said in a statement that officers from Tanglin Police Division and the Criminal Investigation Department conducted raids at multiple massage establishments, hotels and commercial units at Balestier Road, Outram Road, Upper Paya Lebar, and Selegie Road. The raids were conducted between Mar 1 and Mar 23.

Investigations against the 37 individuals are ongoing. The two men arrested, aged 21 and 23, are being investigated for organising the provision of sexual services. "Vice syndicates have been leveraging technology to extend their reach and facilitate their operations with increasing sophistication," the police said. "The women arrested during this operation had advertised their sexual services online.


44 arrested in KTV raid, as part of largest enforcement blitz since start of pandemic

Patrons at a packed three-storey karaoke lounge in Jalan Sultan had their night out cut short on Dec 9 when the police raided the outlet at 11.30pm and arrested 44 people.

The 39 women, aged between 20 and 37, and five men, aged between 23 and 34, are being investigated for offences under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. 

The raid was part of the largest islandwide enforcement blitz since the Covid-19 pandemic struck in 2020, with over 1,300 police officers deployed in the operation from Nov 21 to Dec 14.


Seven women nabbed over vice-related activities at Orchard Towers
The women were arrested for offences under the Women's Charter. PHOTOS: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

The women, aged between 27 and 52, were arrested for offences under the Women's Charter. They are believed to have operated from individual outlets at Orchard Towers, police said.

The police said the string of operations is part of ongoing enforcement efforts to clamp down on vice-related activities in the Orchard Road shopping district. Action will be taken against operators who flout the rules and regulations under the Massage Establishments Act, and landlords are advised to ensure that tenants do not carry out illicit activities in their premises, the police added.

"The police will continue to take tough enforcement action against those involved in criminal activities. Those found engaging in illicit activities will be dealt with sternly in accordance with the law," said Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police Cheong Chee Ming, commander of Tanglin Police Division.


29 women arrested after allegedly found to be working as hostesses at Middle Road

Twenty-nine women, aged between 20 and 33, were arrested for working without a valid work permit after they were allegedly found to be providing hostessing services at two Middle Road public entertainment outlets, said police.

During the joint operation by the Central Police Division and the Criminal Investigation Department on Sept 3, two men, aged 31 and 35, were also arrested for offences under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act 1990.

The two outlets, which allegedly provided hostessing services within their premises, were found to have contravened the Public Entertainment Act 1958, which states that any person who provides or assists in providing any public entertainment in contravention of this act carries a fine not exceeding $10,000.


25 people arrested at South Bridge Road, Geylang for suspected involvement in vice-related activities

Twenty-five people, aged between 18 and 38, have been arrested for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities, the police said in a statement on Friday (Mar 17).

On Mar 7, the police conducted a raid in the vicinity of South Bridge Road and arrested four women and a 31-year-old man for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities. Through further investigations, the identity of another 32-year-old man was established and he was arrested on Mar 15.

Nineteen more women were arrested in the vicinity of Geylang Lorong 12 for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities.


32 under investigation after operation against illegal gambling, vice activities and more

A total of 32 individuals aged between 21 and 73, are being investigated for various offences following a multi-agency enforcement operation conducted from September 25 to October 8.

The operation was led by Bedok Police Division and supported by officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB), Health Sciences Authority (HSA), Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA), Singapore Customs, Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and Singapore Food Agency (SFA).

"The operation aimed to clamp down illegal activities in the Geylang Lorongs, including illegal gambling, vice activities, sale of illegal sexual enhancement medication and illegal hawking, among others," said the police in a news release on Wednesday (Oct 19).


25 women arrested for allegedly working as freelance hostesses

Five entertainment outlets were found to have purportedly breached a raft of rules during enforcement checks on 238 public entertainment outlets between April 27 and Tuesday (May 3).

In a statement on Friday, the police said that 25 women have also been arrested for allegedly working as freelance hostesses without a valid work permit at four of the outlets.

The women, who are of Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese nationalities, are aged between 24 and 53 years old.


9 women arrested in vice raids: 1 found in state of undress, another cried during questioning

Police raided two massage parlours on Friday (April 28) afternoon and arrested three women.

The third day of the raids on unlicensed massage parlours targeted those along MacPherson Road and Upper Paya Lebar Road.

Police raids on unlicensed massage establishments started on Wednesday (April 26) with the first day yielding six arrests at Little India. There were no arrests made at Bukit Batok the first night nor at Clementi on the second day. A total of 15 establishments were checked over the three days.


155 arrested during raids against vice activities in condos, hotels and flats

One man and 154 women were nabbed for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities during a 21-day enforcement operation that ended on May 12.

The suspects are aged between 19 and 49, said the police in a statement on Thursday (May 16). Officers from the Criminal Investigation Department and seven Police Land Divisions had conducted coordinated raids targeting online vice syndicates at multiple locations islandwide.

These included condominiums, hotels and residential units in Geylang, Woodlands, Yishun, Jurong West, Hougang and Balestier Road.


9 arrested in enforcement operation conducted at Chinatown, Middle Road

Eight women and one man, aged between 23 and 39, were arrested during a two-day enforcement operation against massage establishments, public entertainment outlets and liquor outlets on May 10 and 11.

The operation was conducted by Central Police Division in Chinatown and along Middle Road. During the enforcement checks, officers found one unlicensed massage establishment.

A woman was arrested for offences under the Women's Charter and Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. Three public entertainment outlets were found to have contravened public entertainment licensing conditions.


12 women arrested in enforcement operation against massage parlours and public entertainment outlets

Twelve women, aged between 21 and 43, were arrested during a two-day enforcement operation against massage establishments and public entertainment outlets on May 2 and 3, the police said in a news release.

The enforcement checks were conducted by Central Police Division along Syed Alwi Road, Middle Road and Beach Road. During the operation, officers detected one unlicensed massage establishment.

Two women, aged 30 and 43, were arrested for offences under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.


104 arrested for offences involving rioting, vice activities, drugs, drink-driving, scams and more

A total of 69 men and 35 women, aged between 15 and 76, were nabbed for various offences in a multi-agency joint enforcement operation conducted from April 22 to 26.

The five-day operation covered various locations such as Tuas, Jurong West, Choa Chu Kang, Bukit Panjang and Bukit Batok.

It was led by Jurong Police Division and supported by officers from the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB), Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA), Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), Land Transport Authority (LTA) and Singapore Customs.


15 arrested in enforcement operations against massage parlours and public entertainment outlets

One man and 14 women were arrested in a series of enforcement operations against massage establishments and public entertainment outlets on April 26 and 27.

Enforcement checks along Horne Road detected one unlicensed massage establishment, said the police in a statement.

Four women, aged between 29 and 43, were nabbed for offences under the Women’s Charter.

A 25-year-old woman was arrested for offences under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act and the Women’s Charter.


KTV raid part of largest enforcement blitz since start of pandemic, 759 being probed

Patrons at a packed three-storey karaoke lounge in Jalan Sultan had their night out cut short on Dec 9 when the police raided the outlet at 11.30pm and arrested 44 people.

The 39 women, aged between 20 and 37, and five men, aged between 23 and 34, are being investigated for offences under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.  The raid was part of the largest islandwide enforcement blitz since the Covid-19 pandemic struck in 2020, with over 1,300 police officers deployed in the operation from Nov 21 to Dec 14.

Led by various police land divisions and supported by several government agencies, the multi-agency operation ended with a total of 464 men and 295 women, aged between 15 and 88, being investigated for their involvement in various offences. 


06 women and 1 man arrested during anti-vice operation at hotels, condos and HDB flats

A man and 106 women, aged between 19 and 55, were arrested during a 32-day enforcement operation against vice-related activities.

The police said that between Aug 27 and Sep 27, sustained coordinated enforcement operations were conducted at multiple locations island-wide.

These included condominiums, hotels and residential units in Jurong, Sims Avenue, Hougang, Geylang, Admiralty, Tiong Bahru, Kim Keat Road, Choa Chu Kang, Eastwood, Middle Road and Moulmein Road.


7 women arrested, 1 man charged over vice-related activities at Orchard Towers

A 52-year-old man has been charged with allegedly operating an unlicensed massage parlour at Orchard Towers, while seven women were arrested for their involvement in suspected vice-related activities.

This came after officers from Tanglin Police Division conducted a series of operations between July 7 and 19, targeting such activities at Orchard Towers.

In a statement on Wednesday (July 27), police said the man was charged on July 20 under Section 5(1) of the Massage Establishments Act after investigations against him concluded.


44 arrested in KTV raid, as part of largest enforcement blitz since start of pandemic
The raid was part of the largest islandwide enforcement blitz since the Covid-19 pandemic struck in 2020. ST PHOTO: DESMOND WEE

Patrons at a packed three-storey karaoke lounge in Jalan Sultan had their night out cut short on Dec 9 when the police raided the outlet at 11.30pm and arrested 44 people.

The 39 women, aged between 20 and 37, and five men, aged between 23 and 34, are being investigated for offences under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. The raid was part of the largest islandwide enforcement blitz since the Covid-19 pandemic struck in 2020, with over 1,300 police officers deployed in the operation from Nov 21 to Dec 14.

Led by various police land divisions and supported by several government agencies, the multi-agency operation ended with a total of 464 men and 295 women, aged between 15 and 88, being investigated for their involvement in various offences. Investigations against the 759 individuals are ongoing. The operation was aimed at clamping down on crime and illegal activities, such as illegal gambling, vice activities and drug-related offences, ahead of the festive season.


Man charged, seven women nabbed over vice-related activities at Orchard Towers

A 52-year-old man has been charged with allegedly operating an unlicensed massage parlour at Orchard Towers, while seven women were arrested for their involvement in suspected vice-related activities.

This came after officers from Tanglin Police Division conducted a series of operations between July 7 and 19, targeting such activities at Orchard Towers. In a statement on Wednesday (July 27), police said the man was charged on July 20 under Section 5(1) of the Massage Establishments Act after investigations against him concluded.

The women, aged between 27 and 52, were arrested for offences under the Women's Charter. They are believed to have operated from individual outlets at Orchard Towers, police said.


111 women and a man arrested for suspected vice-related activities

Police arrested 111 women and a man for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities after raiding multiple premises around Singapore between March and April.

The women, aged between 20 and 50, and the man, 58, are being investigated for offences under the Women's Charter, said the police on Friday (May 13).

"Some of the women arrested during this operation were believed to have advertised sexual services online," they added.


Police probe more than 130 people after raids on massage parlours

More than 130 people are assisting with police investigations following islandwide enforcement checks on massage parlours between January and last month this year.

A total of 100 massage establishments were found to have committed offences such as allegedly providing massage services without a valid licence and failing to ensure employees do not provide sexual services, said the police in a statement on Thursday (April 7).

The enforcement checks were conducted on 238 massage parlours between Jan 24 and March 26 this year. Among the 138 people the police rounded up, 39 women were arrested for offences under the Women's Charter and the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.


399 people under investigation following police raids on massage, entertainment outlets
Police raiding a illegal massage parlour in Chinatown on Dec 10, 2021. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR

A massage parlour allegedly solicited customers seeking sexual services through a website, and in a raid on the unit located on the second storey of a shophouse along Temple Street in Chinatown last Friday (Dec 10), five women and a man were arrested and condoms and bottles of lubricants were seized.

The Straits Times, which accompanied officers from the Singapore Police Force, Singapore Civil Defence Force and Central Narcotics Bureau during a joint operation that day, also witnessed another raid on an unlicensed unit in Race Course Road which offered massage services but was masquerading as a spa.

The raids were part of an islandwide operation conducted by the police on 159 massage establishments and 110 public entertainment outlets between Oct 24 and last Saturday, and 399 people are under investigation following the operation.


183 people facing police probe after raids on 70 nightlife outlets, including unlicensed KTVs

A total of 183 people are being investigated by the police following islandwide checks on 70 entertainment and nightlife outlets.

The police said in a statement on Wednesday (Nov 3) that the checks took place between Sept 13 and Oct 23.

Fifteen public entertainment and nightlife outlets were found to have flouted Covid-19 measures, breached regulations under the Public Entertainments Act and the Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act, and broke other laws.


KTV lounge linked to Covid-19 cluster fined for flouting licensing conditions
Club De Zara pleaded guilty to three counts of providing public entertainment in violation of a condition of its licence

The operator of an establishment linked to the KTV Covid-19 cluster allowed its performers and freelance hostesses to mingle with patrons in 2019, even though it did not have approval from the authorities to do so.

Club De Zara, which operates a KTV lounge of the same name in Textile Centre, was fined $15,000 on Wednesday (Aug 18).

The company pleaded guilty to three counts of providing public entertainment in violation of a condition of its licence.



45 people being investigated after police raids on massage and entertainment outlets
Investigations against 29 individuals, comprising operators, masseuses and a customer, are ongoing. PHOTOS: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

The police are investigating 45 people after conducting week-long raids on 42 massage parlours and nine unlicensed entertainment outlets.

In a raid on an unlicensed KTV-concept outlet in Chang Charn Road, four women between the ages of 30 and 35 were arrested for working without valid work permits. Eleven persons on the premises are being investigated for alleged breaches of Covid-19 measures. A 40-year-old man has also been arrested for offences under the Public Entertainments Act and Liquor Control Act and for his suspected involvement in the management of this outlet.

A total of 17 establishments are believed to have flouted rules under various Acts, such as the Massage Establishments Act and Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020. These include three outlets operating without a valid licence, and one that allegedly failed to ensure all of its customers wore a mask during the massage.


20 foreign women arrested for suspected involvement in vice activities at 3 KTV lounges

Twenty women of South Korean, Malaysian, Thai and Vietnamese nationalities have been arrested for suspected involvement in vice-related activities at three KTV lounges operating as food and beverage outlets.

This followed an enforcement blitz conducted in South Bridge Road, Selegie Road and Geylang Road on Tuesday (July 13). The women are between the ages of 20 and 34, police said in a statement on Wednesday.

They will be investigated for offences under the Women's Charter, the Immigration Act, and the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.


Inside the S'pore Police Force's raid on unlicensed massage parlours & illegal gambling
Investigations against 131 persons, comprising illegal massage parlour operators, masseuses & customers ongoing

It could start with a seemingly innocuous text: “Hi I found you through this platform... when are you free to date?” One thing leads to another and before you know it you're lying flat on a massage bed, guided entirely by carnal desires.

Such messages are often used by illegal massage establishments to solicit customers, the same kind of establishment that I found myself in on Dec. 10 to observe police proceedings.
Earlier that day, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) had conducted a crackdown on parlours suspected of having committed breaches under the Massage Establishments Act and the Massage Establishment Rules 2018. The day's work was part of a larger island-wide operation that saw 159 massage establishments subjected to enforcement checks between Oct. 24 and Dec. 11, 2021, according to a news release from the SPF.

A total of 63 licensed and unlicensed establishments are alleged to have carried on the business of providing massage services in an establishment for massage without a valid licence and failing to ensure employees do not provide sexual services, as well as breaches under the Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020. Police officers also found masseuses and customers allegedly not wearing a mask during the provision of massage services at two of these premises. Standing from the outside, you wouldn’t have an inkling that the shophouse right in the heart of Chinatown was concealing sexual services. Even inside, the place seemed normal enough — that is until you notice the sex toys, bottles of lube, and condoms.

related:


Illegal massage parlours and illegal gambling in Singapore: Inside a police raid
A makeshift shower beside the massage table in one of the illegal massage establishments. (Photo: Grace Yeoh)

The nondescript shop had all the makings of an illegal massage parlour. Its name in broken English written in cursive font. An LED sign flashing: “Open”. Images of women with hair and makeup reminiscent of the 90s plastered across its shopfront.

Past its questionable signboards, a heady mix of disinfectant and lubricant clung to its dark pink walls within. A bed, towels, tissue boxes and a few pairs of high-heeled shoes were strewn across the floor in several rooms. There was also a makeshift shower beside the massage table in one room, while another had several items on the bed: TOTO tickets, packets of cigarettes, an open box of face masks and several pieces of clothing.

Three women sat on a couch at the reception area, flanked by police officers and a glass cabinet lined with bottles of lubricant. This was one of the illegal parlours that reporters visited last Friday (Dec 10) afternoon, as part of the Singapore Police Force’s (SPF) islandwide enforcement checks on 159 massage establishments between Oct 24 and Dec 11.


10 hostesses arrested after caught mingling with customers at Sim Lim Square nightclub

A total of 28 individuals are under investigation following a police check on a nightlife establishment at Sim Lim Square on Wednesday night (Feb 9), including ten women who were arrested.

The group had been found within the nightclub's premises when the police conducted a check at around 9.35pm. "Among these 28 persons, 10 women, aged between 24 and 48, believed to be hostesses of Chinese, Malaysian and Vietnamese nationalities, were allegedly found to be intermingling and providing companionship to the establishment’s patrons within the premises," said the police.

"One of the women also tested positive for COVID-19 using an Antigen Rapid Test (ART)." All 10 women were arrested for offences under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act 1990.



Police uncover gambling and vice activities, illegal health products in Geylang after operation

Thirty-four people are being investigated for various offences following a week-long multi-agency enforcement operation in Geylang from Jan 17 to 21. 
The police said in a statement on Tuesday (Feb 8) that a total of 19 men and 15 women, aged between 25 and 79, are under investigation.

"During the operation targeting illegal activities and social disamenities at the Geylang Lorongs, three men, aged between 27 and 34, were arrested under suspicion of being members of unlawful societies," the police said.

The police also conducted enforcement operations targeted at vice-related activities at a hotel located along Lorong 22 Geylang and a massage establishment outlet located along Geylang Road. A total of 10 women, aged between 32 and 48, were arrested for offences under the Women’s Charter.


399 people under investigation after police raids on massage, entertainment outlets

A massage parlour allegedly solicited customers seeking sexual services through a website, and in a raid on the unit located on the second storey of a shophouse along Temple Street in Chinatown last Friday (Dec 10), five women and a man were arrested and condoms and bottles of lubricants were seized.

The Straits Times, which accompanied officers from the Singapore Police Force, Singapore Civil Defence Force and Central Narcotics Bureau during a joint operation that day, also witnessed another raid on an unlicensed unit in Race Course Road which offered massage services but was masquerading as a spa.

The raids were part of an islandwide operation conducted by the police on 159 massage establishments and 110 public entertainment outlets between Oct 24 and last Saturday, and 399 people are under investigation following the operation.


Unlicensed KTV-concept outlets raided, 187 people investigated following islandwide police operations

Three public entertainment outlets were found to be operating without a licence during islandwide enforcement checks, the police said on Friday (Jan 28). Two of them were found to be operating as "KTV-concept" establishments.

The first outlet was detected on Dec 18 at an office and industrial building located along Lorong 23 Geylang.  A total of 37 men and 12 women aged between 21 and 42 were found there, along with private rooms each equipped with a karaoke system, speakers and microphones. Liquor was also allegedly provided to patrons. Two men, aged between 29 and 32, were identified as the operators of the unit and were arrested for the supply of liquor without a licence, added the police. They will also be investigated for failing to ensure the closure of a non-permitted enterprise. 

Two Vietnamese women, aged between 22 and 28, were also allegedly found to be providing hostessing services. They were arrested for working without a valid work permit. The 35 men and 10 women who were patrons at the unit will be investigated for flouting COVID-19 regulations, said the police.


Police probing 187 people following raids at public entertainment outlets

The police are investigating 187 individuals for allegedly operating, working at or patronising public entertainment outlets, following a series of raids across one-and-a-half months since the end of last year.

In a media release on Friday (Jan 28), the police said that operators of 16 public entertainment and nightlife outlets, some of which were unlicensed, were believed to have violated several legislations. These included selling alcohol without a licence, hiring foreign workers without a valid work permit and allowing the number of people gathered to exceed the maximum group size under Covid-19 safe distancing requirements. 

Police conducted checks at 103 public entertainment and nightlife outlets between Dec 12 last year and Jan 23. "The 187 persons being investigated comprise operators, staff and customers," they said, adding that investigations are ongoing.


187 under probe following raids on unlicensed entertainment outlets

The police are investigating 187 people following an islandwide crackdown on public entertainment and nightlife outlets.

Enforcement checks were conducted between Dec 12 last year and Jan 23, and operators, staff and customers of 103 such establishments are under investigation, the police said in a statement on Friday (Jan 28).

The operators of 16 outlets were found to have committed various breaches under the Public Entertainments Act, Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act and Covid-19 regulations.


S'pore police raid unlicensed KTVs over Christmas weekend, 131 people aged 16-44 under investigation

The Singapore Police Force (SPF) is investigating 131 men and women, aged between 16 and 44, following a multi-agency enforcement operation conducted from Dec. 24 to 25, 2021. 
The operation was led by Tanglin Police Division and supported by officers from the Singapore Civil Defence Force, Singapore Tourism Board and Urban Redevelopment Authority.

During the operation that targeted licensed and unlicensed public entertainment and nightlife outlets, a total of 29 outlets were inspected. Four of the outlets were found to have committed breaches under the Public Entertainments Act 1958, the Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act 2015, the Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020 and the Fire Safety Act 1993. During the operation, a purported unlicensed "KTV-concept" outlet, furnished with six private rooms, was detected at a commercial unit located along Sophia Road.

A total of 40 men and 12 women aged between 20 and 44 were found allegedly singing karaoke and consuming liquor within the unit. Amongst persons found in the unit, a 22-year-old man, who was believed to be the operator of the outlet, was also arrested under the Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act 2015. He will also be investigated under the Public Entertainments Act 1958. The operator and 51 patrons are being investigated for non-compliance with safe distancing measures as well.


87 people hauled up after checks on 101 massage establishments islandwide
A total of 31 establishments were found allegedly providing massage services without a valid licence. PHOTO: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

Eighty-seven people have been hauled up following islandwide enforcement checks on 101 massage establishments between Sept 13 and Oct 23.

A total of 31 establishments were found allegedly providing massage services without a valid licence and failing to ensure that employees do not provide sexual services. The police have arrested 46 women.

Ten establishments were found to have allegedly breached Covid-19 safe distancing measures by failing to ensure that all persons wear a mask within the licensed premises, and that interactions among staff and customers are minimised.



101 MASSAGE PARLOURS RAIDED, 46 WOMEN ARRESTED

According to the Police, a raid was conducted by the authorities on 101 massage parlours which lead to the investigation of 87 individuals.

Some of the massage parlours were caught breaching COVID-19 rules, while some did not have a license and some were found with employees providing “special service”.

The Police said that 46 women were arrested.


87 people investigated following raids on 101 massage establishments

A total of 87 people are being investigated following islandwide raids on 101 massage establishments, the police said on Saturday (Nov 6).

Thirty-one massage parlours were found to have breached rules governing massage establishments during enforcement operations between Sep 13 and Oct 23.

These breaches include allegedly carrying on a business of providing massage services in an establishment without a valid licence and failing to ensure employees do not provide sexual services. Ten massage establishments were also found to have flouted COVID-19 regulations.


183 people under probe after police raids on nightspots including unlicensed ‘KTV-concept’ joints
An unlicensed “KTV-concept” outlet operating within a mixed-use industrial unit along Tagore Lane in the Upper Thomson area

The police are investigating 183 people after islandwide enforcement checks on 70 public entertainment and nightlife outlets between Sept 13 and Oct 23.

A total of 15 outlets were found to have committed various public entertainment and liquor control offences, as well as breaches of Covid-19 laws, the police said in a statement on Wednesday (Nov 3). Several of the operators were also purportedly running unlicensed “KTV-concept” outlets, the police added.

Among the cases was an illegal KTV joint allegedly operating within a shophouse unit along Syed Alwi Road in Little India. In a raid on Oct 2, the police found eight men and a woman there who were aged between 18 and 33.


99 under probe, with 29 arrested, after police raids on nearly 300 massage, entertainment outlets
The raids took place between Aug 19 and Sept 24, 2021. PHOTO: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

Nearly a hundred people are under investigation and 29 of them have been arrested following a police crackdown on 283 massage establishments and public entertainment and nightlife outlets.

The raids took place between Aug 19 and Sept 24, the police said in a statement on Saturday (Oct 2).

A total of 32 of 192 massage establishments raided were found to have broken the law.



45 people under investigation after raids on massage parlours, unlicensed entertainment outlets
Police are investigating 45 people following a recent week-long enforcement operation against massage establishments and unlicensed public entertainment outlets. (Photo: Singapore Police Force)

The authorities are investigating 45 people following islandwide enforcement operations on 42 massage parlours and nine public entertainment outlets between Aug 9 and 15, the police said in a news release on Friday (Aug 20).

This includes an unlicensed KTV-concept outlet along Chang Charn Road, where four women aged between 30 and 33 were arrested for allegedly working without a valid work permit.

Another 11 people in the premises are being investigated for allegedly breaching COVID-19 restrictions. 


Nine women arrested at three unlicensed massage outlets in police raids
The outlets were purportedly found to be operating without a valid licence.
PHOTOS: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

Nine women who worked at massage parlours in Little India were arrested following police enforcement operations on three establishments between Sept 16 and 17.

The three outlets were purportedly found to be operating without a valid licence, in violation of the Massage Establishments Act, said the police on Friday (Sept 24).

The nine masseuses, aged between 22 and 47, were arrested for offences under the Women's Charter. Police did not specify the offences, but said investigations are under way.


6 women arrested for alleged involvement in sexual services in massage parlours
They were nabbed following raids by the police on three massage establishments on Oct 5 and 7. PHOTO: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

Six women, aged between 28 and 39, were arrested for allegedly providing or advertising to provide sexual services in massage parlours, said the Singapore Police Force (SPF) in a statement on Monday (Oct 11).

They were nabbed following raids by the police on three massage establishments located in Kim Keat Lane, Turf Club Road and Sophia Road last Tuesday and Thursday.

One of the three outlets was found to be allegedly providing massage services in an establishment for massage without a valid licence.


35 people to be charged in court after police raid unlicensed KTV

The police will be charging 35 people aged between 17 and 34 who were caught in an unlicensed KTV operating in a unit in Tradehub 21 at Boon Lay Way.

They will be charged in court on Wednesday (Sept 22) with violating restrictions on leaving their place of residence.

In a statement on Tuesday, the police said 44 people were found in the unit on Jan 1 this year. Public entertainment and liquor were allegedly provided.


9 people investigated after police raid massage establishments
The people under investigation include masseuses and outlet operators. PHOTO: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

Nine people are under investigation following a series of police raids on massage establishments.

They include masseuses as well as outlet operators.

Seven outlets were found to have committed various offences under the Massage Establishments Act, with four outlets allegedly operating without valid licenses, said the police in a statement on Saturday (Aug 14).


67 arrested for vice activities, illegal gambling, drug offences and more

A group of 67 people, aged between 27 and 85, were arrested for their suspected involvement in various offences during an island-wide operation conducted between Dec 15 and Saturday (Dec 26).

The police said in a statement that the anti-crime operation targeted criminal activities island-wide, including congregation hotspots such as Clarke Quay, Orchard Road and Boat Quay.

46 men and 21 women were arrested for suspected vice-related activities, illegal gambling, being members of unlawful societies and offences under the Misuse of Drugs Act and Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.


THIRTY-NINE PERSONS UNDER INVESTIGATION IN POLICE OPERATION AGAINST UNLICENSED PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT OUTLETS

The Police have arrested three men, aged between 24 and 37, in an operation to clamp down on unlicensed public entertainment outlets. Thirty-six persons who were found in the units will also be investigated for alleged non-compliance with safe distancing measures under the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020.

On 17 July 2021, the Police conducted an operation against two unlicensed public entertainment outlets located along Selegie Road and Tagore Lane. In both units, public entertainment and liquor were believed to have been provided without a valid licence. Karaoke equipment, liquor bottles and beer cans found at both units were seized for investigations.

In the operation at a shophouse along Selegie Road, 14 men and nine women, aged between 20 and 31, were allegedly found socializing at the location. Two 24-year-old men, believed to be operators of the unit, were arrested under the Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act for allegedly supplying liquor without a licence.


ENFORCEMENT OPERATION AGAINST UNLICENSED PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT OUTLETS

The Police conducted an enforcement operation against unlicensed public entertainment outlets located along Kitchener Road and Verdun Road on 2 and 3 April 2021.

During the operation conducted by Central Police Division, three outlets were found to have contravened the Public Entertainments Act, Liquor Control Act 2015, and the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Act 2020. 34 men and 11 women, aged between 24 and 66, will be investigated for allegedly flouting the rules and regulations under the Public Entertainments Act and Liquor Control Act 2015, as well as for their suspected breach of COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations for gathering in a group of more than eight persons.

Six men and one woman, aged between 23 and 38, were also arrested for offences under the Liquor Control Act 2015 and Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. One other 38-year-old man, established to have an outstanding warrant of arrest, was also arrested. Items such as karaoke equipment and liquor were seized as exhibits.


20 women arrested for suspected vice activities at 3 KTV lounges operating as F&B outlets

Twenty women have been arrested for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities within three pivoted KTV lounges operating as food and beverage outlets.

The police said in a statement on Wednesday (July 14) that the arrests were made in an anti-crime operation conducted along South Bridge Road, Selegie Road and Geylang Road on Tuesday (July 13).

The women, aged between 20 and 34, are of Korean, Malaysian, Thai and Vietnamese nationalities. They will be investigated for offences under the Women's Charter, the Immigration Act and the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.


20 foreign women arrested for suspected involvement in vice activities at 3 KTV lounges

Twenty women of South Korean, Malaysian, Thai and Vietnamese nationalities have been arrested for suspected involvement in
vice-related activities at three KTV lounges operating as food and beverage outlets.

This followed an enforcement blitz conducted in South Bridge Road, Selegie Road and Geylang Road on Tuesday (July 13). The women are between the ages of 20 and 34, police said in a statement on Wednesday.

They will be investigated for offences under the Women's Charter, the Immigration Act, and the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.


3 KTV operators under investigation for allegedly providing hostessing services; 20 women arrested

Three KTV operators are being investigated after allegedly providing “hostessing services” within their premises, said the police on Wednesday (Jul 14).

This is in breach of safe management measures, under the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020. The police did not name the three KTV establishments in their media release.

The authorities also said that 20 women aged between 20 and 34 were arrested for their suspected involvement in vice activities within the three KTV lounges, which had pivoted to operate as F&B outlets. The women were of Korean, Malaysian, Thai and Vietnamese nationalities.


25 S'pore massage establishments and 23 people caught flouting Covid-19 mask-on rules
Police officers stepping up checks at massage establishments to ensure operators and customers comply with safe distancing measures. PHOTO: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

The police will take action against 25 massage establishments for not ensuring that staff and customers wear masks at all times.

And 23 individuals will also be taken to task for not wearing a mask during their massage.

This comes as checks at such establishments are stepped up to ensure that safe management measures are followed, the police said in a statement on Wednesday (May 26). Checks have been carried out at around 850 such establishments in the past two weeks.

relatedPolice raids


84 PERSONS ARRESTED IN 31-DAY ISLANDWIDE ANTI-VICE OPERATION

The Police have arrested 83 women and a man, aged between 26 and 54, for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities.

In a 31-day operation that ended on 31 March 2021, officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the seven Police Land Divisions conducted coordinated raids at multiple locations island-wide, including condominiums, hotels and residential units along Beach Road, Bukit Batok Street 41, Guillemard Road, Jalan Dusun, Joo Chiat Road, Jurong East Street 32, Jurong West Street 65, Jurong West Street 93, Kellock Road, Kitchener Link, Kovan Road, Lorong 20 Geylang, Mackenzie Road, Meyappa Chettiar Road, Orchard Road, Race Course Lane, Race Course Road, Rangoon Road, Sembawang Road, Serangoon Road, Tanjong Pagar Road, Upper Boon Keng Road, Upper Serangoon Road, Woodlands Drive 70 and Zion Road. Police investigations are ongoing.

The Police will take firm action against those found acting as agents or pimps for vice activities. Under the Women’s Charter, any person who knowingly solicits, receives or agrees to receive any gratification as an inducement or reward for providing any service, and who by providing that service does or will aid the prostitution of another person (being a woman or girl), shall be guilty of an offence, and shall on conviction be punished with imprisonment for a term not exceeding seven years and a fine not exceeding $100,000. Repeat offenders shall be punished with imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years and a fine not exceeding $100,000, in addition to any term of imprisonment or caning imposed in respect of such offence.



Geylang operations see dozens arrested, aged 16 to 94
The police found public entertainment outlets that were operating illegally and rounded up 24 men and 10 women during the operation. Singapore Police Force

A week-long dragnet to clamp down on criminal activities in Geylang saw 89 people hauled up for various offences, the police said in a statement on Sunday (Dec 6)

Among those nabbed were 62 men and 27 women, with the youngest being 16, and the oldest, 94.

The teenage girl was arrested for offences under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act, while the 94-year-old woman is being investigated for offences under the Common Gaming Houses Act.


94-year-old among nearly 90 people hauled up in anti-crime operation in Geylang
A multi-agency enforcement operation targeting illegal public entertainment outlets was conducted in December 2020. (Photo: SPF)

A 94-year-old was among nearly 90 people hauled up for various offences in a multi-agency operation this week to clamp down on criminal activities in Geylang, the police said in a news release on Sunday (Dec 6).

A total of 62 men and 27 women are under investigation after the operation from Dec 1 to Dec 6, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) said.

They include 20 men who were investigated for offences such as the suspected sale of illicit medication, suspected drug-related offences and being a member of a secret society.


89 people, including a 94-year-old, hauled up in Geylang dragnet to clamp down on illegal activities
Cash amounting to more than $69,500 and gambling-related paraphernalia were seized during the operation.PHOTO: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

In one massage establishment, a 40-year-old woman was arrested for an offence under the Woman's Charter. The outlet was found to be operating without a valid licence.

The police also found public entertainment outlets that were operating illegally under the Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) Act 2020. They rounded up 24 men and 10 women who are being investigated for breaching public entertainment licence and liquor licence conditions, as well as for operating during prohibition and failing to comply with safe distancing measures.

As part of the sweep of entertainment outlets, one man and five women, aged between 16 and 42, were also arrested for offences under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.


157 hauled up in week-long anti-crime crackdown

In a week-long blitz, a total of 157 people were detained for various crimes, from illegal bookmaking to e-commerce offences.

The multi-agency anti-crime operation conducted from Aug 23 to 30 led to the arrests of some of the 128 men and 29 women picked up. The suspects are aged between 16 and 81.

The operation covered various locations in Jurong West, Tuas, Choa Chu Kang, Bukit Panjang and Bukit Batok, and was led by the Jurong Police Division. It was supported by officers from the Central Narcotics Bureau, Land Transport Authority and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority.


28 men and women arrested for gambling and vice offences in multi-agency raid

The police has arrested 28 people and seized more than $22,300 worth of goods - including contraband cigarettes and illegal medicines - in a multi-agency operation against illegal gambling and vice activities.

The suspects, aged between 21 and 68, were arrested for offences under the Common Gaming House Act, the Women's Charter and for suspected drugs and Customs-related offences, said the police in a statement on Friday (June 26). They had also broken safe distancing measures under the Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020.

The operation, which took place from June 8 to 21, was led by the Bedok Police Division.


30 women, aged 22 to 53, arrested after police raid at Golden Mile Tower & other locations

Thirty women, aged between 22 and 53, were arrested for offences under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act following a police raid on Nov. 11, 2020.

On Nov. 11, 2020, the police carried out a joint enforcement operation led by Central Police Division involving enforcement officers from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) at public entertainment outlets located along Aliwal Street, Temple Street, Beach Road, Syed Alwi Road and South Bridge Road.

During the operation, two outlets were found to have contravened Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) and another outlet was found to have contravened Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) and liquor licence conditions.


Entertainment outlets caught flouting Covid-19 rules during police raids
The raids were part of a joint enforcement operation led by the Central Police Division.PHOTO: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

Several public entertainment spots were raided this week as police stepped up enforcement against Covid-19 breaches, ahead of a pilot programme to allow up to 25 nightspots to reopen from next month.

At least one of the establishments appeared to be operating illegally.

Three outlets were found to have broken rules under the Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) Act, while eight people were investigated for breaching safe distancing measures.


12 women and 3 men arrested for vice-related activities

Twelve women and three men, aged between 18 and 38, have been arrested for vice-related activities.

They were rounded up in an eight-day sting operation between June 12 and 19, which targeted rented commercial and private residential units in the Scotts Road, Balestier Road, Mackenzie Road and Selegie Road areas.

Eleven women, aged between 18 and 38, were arrested for vice-related offences under the Women's Charter, and one 29-year-old woman was arrested for offences under the Immigration Act.

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30 women arrested for suspected vice activity, 19 men fined for breaching CB measures after police raids

The Singapore Police Force (SPF) conducted a three-day island-wide operation from May 4 to 6. Police officers conducted "coordinated raids" on various locations including HDB housing estates, condominiums, massage establishments, and a hotel, SPF said in a statement on May 10.

A total of 30 women, aged between 19 and 48, were arrested for suspected involvement in vice-related activities. A total of 19 men, aged between 19 and 85, were found in the premises that were raided.

As they had left their residences for non-essential activities, they were each fined S$300 for breaching safe distancing measures, SPF said.

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31 ARRESTED IN ENFORCEMENT OPERATION AGAINST VICE

The Police have arrested 22 men and 9 women, aged between 23 and 72, in a three-day enforcement operation from 12 to 14 March 2020, targeting vice and gambling activities along Race Course Road, Havelock Road, Bendemeer Road, Temple Street, Tyrwhitt Road, Merchant Road, King George’s Road, and Eu Tong Sen Street.

During the enforcement operation conducted by Central Police Division, four women, aged between 32 and 41, were arrested for offences under the Women’s Charter. Preliminary investigations revealed that they had advertised sexual services online and operated from hotels and rented apartments.

16 men and five women, aged between 50 and 72, were arrested for gambling-related offences under the Common Gaming Houses Act and Betting Act. Cash amounting to $2236.90 was seized. Six men, aged between 23 and 28, were arrested for immigration and suspected drug-related offences.

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Illegal sex services continue as cash-strapped workers receive help

Temperature screening before paid sex: This is a precaution that a Telegram group chat advertising sexual services has imposed on its clients.

Illegal sex work has persisted, with services advertised online, despite safe distancing measures being flouted under the rules of the circuit breaker.

In a police operation held earlier this month, 30 women were arrested for suspected involvement in vice-related activities.

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19 men, aged 19 to 85, face fines for flouting circuit breaker after being found in premises raided for vice

Nineteen men, aged between 19 and 85, will be fined S$300 for flouting circuit breaker measures, after being found in premises that were not their homes during an anti-vice raid, the Singapore Police Force said in a statement on Sunday (May 10).

Officers from the Criminal Investigation Department and Central, Tanglin, Ang Mo Kio and Bedok divisions conducted coordinated raids between May 4 and 6, targeting vice-related activities in Housing and Development Board (HDB) estates, private condominiums, massage establishments and a hotel.

The men were found inside these premises.

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30 women arrested for suspected involvement in vice activities; 19 men fined for breaching safe-distancing measures

An 85-year-old man was fined after being caught up in a series of police raids that led to the arrest of 30 women for vice-related activity.

The senior was among 19 men found during swoops on various premises, including Housing Board estates, massage shops, several condominiums and a hotel.

They were each fined $300 as they had left their residences for a "non-essential activity", the police said on Sunday (May 10).

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Police arrest 37 people, seize more than $3,000 in sting operation against illegal gambling, prostitution

Police arrested 37 people and seized more than $3,000 in connection to illegal gambling and prostitution-related activities during a three-day sting operation.

Enforcement operation was conducted in Jalan Bukit Merah, Jalan Besar, Tiong Bahru Road, Syed Alwi Road, Keong Saik Road and Pearl's Hill Terrace over three days from Thursday (Feb 27), the police said in a statement released on Saturday (Feb 29).

Specifically, 14 women, aged between 22 and 40, were arrested for offences under the Women's Charter. They were believed to have advertised their sexual services online and carried out the vices in hotels.

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Singapore cracks down on ‘pop-up’ brothels in rented flats amid spike in online prostitution
Several MPs suggested setting up channels for sex workers to report prostitution syndicates without fear of prosecution. Photo: Handout

Singapore’s parliament on Monday passed a law designed to crack down on “pop-up brothels” appearing in rented flats in the Singapore heartlands, some of them run by foreign vice syndicates using websites and apps.

Three key changes were made in the amendments to the Women’s Charter, which protects and advances the rights of women and girls in Singapore.

The onus will now be placed on homeowners and tenants who let or sublet their properties to conduct identity checks, such as face-to-face interviews, on potential tenants or subtenants to ensure they know the type of people moving in.

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1 man, 4 women arrested in vice raid along Joo Avenue

Four women and one man, aged between 20 and 39, were arrested on Tuesday (21 January) in a vice raid along Joo Avenue.

In a news release on Wednesday, police said the women were believed to have advertised their sexual services online and operated from residential units in the Farrer Park area.

The arrested man is also believed to have been managing the vice activities of the four women. Cash of up to $1,750 was also seized the operation by officers from the Central Police Division.

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29 arrested in joint operation against drug and vice activities, cannabis and 'Ice' seized

The Singapore Police Force and the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) arrested 29 people during a three-day joint enforcement operation against drug and vice activities.

The operation was carried out at Woodlands, Sembawang, Yishun and Upper Thomson from Nov 25 to 27.

During enforcement checks conducted by officers from Woodlands Police Division and the CNB, 10 men aged between 21 and 58, were arrested for suspected drug-related offences.

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59 nabbed over vice, gambling activities

The police arrested a total of 59 people - 28 men and 31 women, aged between 20 and 88 - for vice and gambling related activities.

The six-day operation was conducted by Central Police Division, targeting vice and gambling activities along Eu Tong Sen Street, Tiong Bahru Road, Geylang Bahru, Rowell, Merchant Road, Temple Street, Smith Street, Jalan Bukit Merah, Jalan Sultan, Foch Road, Syed Alwi Road, Jalan Membina, Bencoolen Street, King George's Avenue, Jalan Besar and Middle Road.

During the operation, 15 women, aged between 26 and 57, were arrested for illegal prostitution. These women, who were residing in Singapore on Employment Passes and Short Term Visit Passes, were believed to operate from hotels, shop houses and rented apartments.

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Vice in the heartlands - 6 sex workers arrested in Woodlands

Sex workers who were arrested in an HDB flat in Woodlands during a raid on an illegal brothel on Oct 25, 2019.

From the outside, there is nothing out of the ordinary about this ground-floor flat in Woodlands fronted by a cream door, which anyone could walk past and miss. But step inside, and it is teeming with tell-tale signs of paid sex, much like a brothel.

The house is so dim that you look around for a light switch, only to realise that the lights are already turned on, but their glare has been intentionally muted.

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Stomp follows police on anti-vice raid: 6 women arrested in Woodlands HDB flats

Six women, aged between 25 and 45, were arrested for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities on Oct 25.

Stomp followed police officers from the Criminal Investigation Department and Woodlands Police Division during raids targeting vice activities two Housing Board flats in Woodlands, one at Woodlands Drive 50 and the other at Woodlands Street 82.

In both units, Stomp spotted both used and new condoms.

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106 women and 1 man arrested during anti-vice operation at hotels, condos and HDB flats

A man and 106 women, aged between 19 and 55, were arrested during a 32-day enforcement operation against vice-related activities.

The police said that between Aug 27 and Sep 27, sustained coordinated enforcement operations were conducted at multiple locations island-wide.

These included condominiums, hotels and residential units in Jurong, Sims Avenue, Hougang, Geylang, Admiralty, Tiong Bahru, Kim Keat Road, Choa Chu Kang, Eastwood, Middle Road and Moulmein Road.

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155 arrested during raids against vice activities in condos, hotels and flats

One man and 154 women were nabbed for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities during a 21-day enforcement operation that ended on May 12. The suspects are aged between 19 and 49, said the police in a statement on Thursday (May 16).

Officers from the Criminal Investigation Department and seven Police Land Divisions had conducted coordinated raids targeting online vice syndicates at multiple locations islandwide.

These included condominiums, hotels and residential units in Geylang, Woodlands, Yishun, Jurong West, Hougang and Balestier Road.

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65 hauled up for offences involving vice activities, scams, drugs, loansharking and gambling

A total of 65 people were hauled up for various offences in a multi-agency joint operation conducted from June 7 to 14.

The eight-day operation covered estates including Ang Mo Kio, Serangoon, Hougang, Sengkang, and Punggol, said the police in a statement on Friday (June 21). It was led by Ang Mo Kio Police Division and supported by officers from the Criminal Investigation Department, Central Narcotics Bureau, and Singapore Customs.

During the operations, 16 men and a woman, aged between 21 and 51, were arrested for offences under the Common Gaming Houses Act.

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261 hauled up for offences involving vice activities, drugs, loansharking, gambling and more

The police have hauled up 214 men and 47 women, aged between 16 and 76, for various offences in a multi-agency joint operation conducted from June 24 to June 29, and July 1.

Led by Bedok Police Division, the operation was supported by officers from Central Narcotics Bureau, Immigration & Checkpoints Authority, Singapore Civil Defence Force, Health Sciences Authority, Singapore Customs and Ministry of Manpower.

The operation covered various locations such as Pasir Ris, Tampines, Chai Chee, Bedok, East Coast, Joo Chiat, Eunos Crescent, Mountbatten and Geylang.

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6 women arrested for allegedly carrying out vice activities in private apartments

Six women, aged between 28 and 49, were arrested during an enforcement operation targeting vice activities in private apartments on Wednesday (Oct 9).

They were nabbed in units along Meyappa Chettiar Road and Wilkie Road, said police in a statement on Friday (Oct 11).

The women are believed to have advertised their sexual services online and carried out vice activities in the rented residential units.

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104 arrested for offences involving rioting, vice activities, drugs, drink-driving, scams and more

A total of 69 men and 35 women, aged between 15 and 76, were nabbed for various offences in a multi-agency joint enforcement operation conducted from April 22 to 26.

The five-day operation covered various locations such as Tuas, Jurong West, Choa Chu Kang, Bukit Panjang and Bukit Batok.

It was led by Jurong Police Division and supported by officers from the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB),

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56 arrested for vice activities, obstructing police, gambling, drug and immigration offences

A total of 31 men and 25 women, aged between 19 and 80, were nabbed in an enforcement operation against vice and gambling activities.

The five-day operation was conducted along Jalan Besar, Belilios Road, Syed Alwi, Rangoon Road, Jalan Bukit Merah, Selegie Road, Kim Tian Road, Lavender Street, Jellico Road, Foch Road, Upper Cross Street, Jalan Membina, Havelock Road, Rowell Road and Beach Road.

One man and six women were arrested for suspected vice-related activities, said the police in a statement on Thursday (June 6).

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9 arrested in enforcement operation conducted at Chinatown, Middle Road

Eight women and one man, aged between 23 and 39, were arrested during a two-day enforcement operation against massage establishments, public entertainment outlets and liquor outlets on May 10 and 11.

The operation was conducted by Central Police Division in Chinatown and along Middle Road.

During the enforcement checks, officers found one unlicensed massage establishment.

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11 arrested in enforcement operations against massage parlours and public entertainment outlets

Ten women and a man, aged between 23 and 39, were arrested during a series of enforcement operations conducted against unlicensed massage establishments and public entertainment outlets from Apr 3 to Apr 4.

The operations were conducted against outlets along Kallang Bahru, Rangoon Road, Havelock Road, North Bridge Road, Beach Road and Jalan Pinang by the Central Police Division.

Turing the operations, two unlicensed massage establishments were detected, and one outlet was found to have contravened licensing conditions.

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18 women arrested for advertising sexual services online, operating from HDB flat, hotels in enforcement operations

Two women were arrested in an enforcement operation on Jan 22 against vice activities in a Housing Board (HDB) flat along Lorong 1 Toa Payoh.

The police said in a statement that the two women, aged 34 and 46, were arrested for offences under the Women's Charter.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the women had advertised their sexual services online and operated from a rented HDB flat.

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5 men and 30 women, aged 21 to 88, arrested in raids targeting vice, gambling activities

A total of five men and 30 women, aged between 21 and 88, were nabbed in a three-day operation against vice and gambling activities from March 25 to 27.

The series of raids were conducted in the vicinity of Beach Road, Bencoolen Street, Tiong Bahru Road, Temple Street, Jalan Membina and Havelock Road, said the police on Thursday (March 28).

Seventeen women were arrested for offences under the Women’s Charter. These women, who were on work permits and short-term visit passes, were believed to be offering sexual services online and operated from hotels and hostels.

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125 arrested for various crimes including vice activities, molest and scams in 5-day operation

A total of 125 suspects, including sixty-two men and 63 women, aged between 18 and 62, were arrested from Oct 22 to Oct 26 for various offences in a five-day multi-agency joint enforcement operation.

Officers from Jurong Police Division led the operation with support from the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB), Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA), Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) and Singapore Customs.

The operation was carried out in multiple locations in Singapore, including Tuas, Jurong West, Choa Chu Kang, Bukit Panjang, Bukit Batok and Woodlands.

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53 arrested for offences involving vice activities, drugs and gambling during 3-day operation

A total of 47 men and six women, aged between 20 and 79, were nabbed for various offences during an enforcement operation from Oct 12 to 14.

The enforcement operation was conducted along Banda Street, Jalan Bukit Merah, Telok Blangah Crescent, King George Ave, Syed Alwi Road, Merchant Road, Bencoolen Street, Rowell Road and North Bridge Road by Central Police Division with the support of the Central Narcotics Bureau.

One woman and 26 men were arrested for gambling-related offences along King George Avenue, Banda Street, Telok Blangah Crescent and Jalan Bukit Merah. Cash amounting to $3,567 were seized.

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16 arrested for vice and gambling activities, immigration-related offences

Ten women and six men were nabbed in an enforcement operation against vice and gambling activities on Friday (May 10).

The operation was conducted along Rangoon Road, Havelock Road, Coleman Street, Jalan Sultan, South Bridge Road and Temple Street by Central Police Division.

Seven women, aged between 25 and 38, were arrested for offences under the Women’s Charter.

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22 women arrested at public entertainment outlets for working without valid permits

Twenty-two women, aged between 20 to 33, were arrested in two-day enforcement operation against public entertainment outlets along South Bridge Road, Sam Leong Road and Beach Road.

During the enforcement checks on March 20 and 21, three outlets were found to have contravened public entertainment licensing conditions.

The women were nabbed for working without valid work permits under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.

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39 arrested for various offences including offering sexual services and gambling

Seven men and 32 women, aged between 21 and 71, were nabbed in a police operation against vice and gambling activities from March 7 to 10.

The series of raids targeting were conducted along Beach Road, Bencoolen Street, Rochor Canal Road, Desker Road, Jalan Sultan, Seng Poh Road and Crawford Lane.

Thirty women were arrested for offences under the Women’s Charter.

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148 arrested in three-day operation against public entertainment outlets


The police have arrested 144 women and four men for various offences during a three-day operation against public entertainment outlets.

The operation, which took place from August 22 to 24, covered various locations along Jalan Besar, Foch Road, Beach Road and Sam Leong Road, Jalan Sultan, North Bridge Road, South Bridge Road, New Bridge Road, Serangoon Road, Arab Street and Magazine Road.

In the operation conducted by the Central Police Division 19 public entertainment outlets were found to have contravened licensing conditions.

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Police arrest 148 people in operation against public entertainment outlets

Four men and 144 women were arrested during a three-day police operation against public entertainment outlets from 22 to 24 August.

The women, aged between 19 and 41, and two of the men, aged 25 and 26, were arrested for offences under the Foreign Manpower Employment Act, said the police in a news release on Sunday (25 August).

One 27-year-old man was nabbed for obstructing a police officer from carrying out official duties, while another 24-year-old man was apprehended for employing foreigners without a work permit.

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Orchard Towers; 76 vice workers arrested there in 2018

Police have “maintained a strong tempo” of enforcement operations at Orchard Towers, with 18 anti-vice operations conducted there resulting in the arrest of 76 vice workers last year, said Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Home Affairs Amrin Amin on Monday (Aug 5).

Additionally, the number of illegal massage parlours at Orchard Towers has decreased over the past three years, Mr Amrin said in response to parliamentary questions posed by Members of Parliament (MPs) Melvin Yong and Christopher de Souza.

These questions come amid an ongoing murder case at Orchard Towers, where seven people have been charged with the alleged murder of 31-year-old Satheesh Noel Gobidass on Jul 2.

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65 hauled up for offences involving vice activities, scams, drugs, loansharking and gambling
Two massage establishments were also found to be operating without a valid licence, while two other massage establishments were found to have breached licensing conditions

A total of 65 people were hauled up for various offences in a multi-agency joint operation conducted from June 7 to 14.

The eight-day operation covered estates including Ang Mo Kio, Serangoon, Hougang, Sengkang, and Punggol, said the police in a statement on Friday (June 21).

It was led by Ang Mo Kio Police Division and supported by officers from the Criminal Investigation Department, Central Narcotics Bureau, and Singapore Customs.

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28 women arrested in anti-vice operation, including 5 who appeared nude in public

A series of enforcement operations against vice activities in private residential units, massage establishments and public entertainment outlets saw the arrest of 28 women.

The raids were conducted between July 17 and 20, said the police in a statement.

Seven women, aged between 26 and 47, were arrested for offences under the Women’s Charter during the operations against vice activities in private residential units along Balestier Road, Cavenagh Road and Boon Teck Road.

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More than 150 women nabbed in 21-day anti-vice police operation
Raids were conducted at multiple locations islandwide, including at condominiums, hotels and residential units in Geylang, Woodlands, Yishun, Jurong West, Hougang and along Balestier Road. PHOTO: S'PORE POLICE FORCE

More than 150 people were nabbed by police in a 21-day anti-vice operation that ended on Sunday (May 12).

Police said in a statement on Thu that 154 women and a man, aged between 19 & 49, were arrested for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities.

Officers from the Criminal Investigation Department and seven Police Land Divisions conducted coordinated raids targeting online vice syndicates at multiple locations islandwide, including at condominiums, hotels and residential units in Geylang, Woodlands, Yishun, Jurong West, Hougang & along Balestier Road.

related:
Heartland brothels make residents see red
Chasing vice out of the HDB heartland

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22 arrested in raids on public entertainment outlets
Some of the 22 women arrested by the police for working without a valid work permit. PHOTO: S'PORE POLICE FORCE

The police have arrested 22 women, aged between 22 & 30, in a series of raids on public entertainment outlets along South Bridge Road, Sam Leong Road and Beach Road.

The raids, which were conducted by the Central Police Division, took place on Wednesday and yesterday, the police said in a release.

The women were arrested for working without a valid work permit under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.

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125 Arrested in Multi-Agency Enforcement Blitz

62 men & 63 women, aged between 18 & 62, were arrested for various offences in a 5-day multi-agency joint enforcement operation conducted from 22 to 26 October 2018.

The operation was led by Jurong Police Division and supported by officers from Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB), Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA), Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) and Singapore Customs. The operation covered multiple locations in the western and northern parts of Singapore, including Tuas, Jurong West, Choa Chu Kang, Bukit Panjang, Bukit Batok and Woodlands.

During the operation, 47 women were arrested for suspected involvement in vice-related activities at residential units and employment related offences at public entertainment outlets. Another 14 men & 3 women were arrested for e-commence scams and commercial crime-related offences. Preliminary investigations revealed that they were believed to be involved in 60 cases where victims lost more than $356,000.

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125 arrested in 5-day enforcement blitz across western, northern Singapore
A five-day multi-agency enforcement blitz has seen 125 people arrested for a variety of offences, said the Singapore Police Force (SPF) in a news release on Saturday (28 October)

In total, 62 men and 63 women – aged between 18 and 62 – were arrested in the joint operation, which covered multiple locations in the western and norther parts of Singapore, including Tuas, Jurong West, Choa Chu Kang, Bukit Panjang and Woodlands.

Over the period 22 to 26 October, 47 women were arrested for their suspect involvement in vice-related activities at residential units and employment-related offences at public entertainment outlets. Meanwhile, 14 men and three women were nabbed for e-commerce scams and commercial crime-related offences. These suspects are thought to be involved in 60 cases, in which victims lost over $356,000, said the SPF.

Another 48 men and 13 women were also arrested for loansharking activities, immigration-related offences, outrage of modesty, robbery and other offences. A total of 4,332 packs of duty unpaid cigarettes were also seized – with the amount out unpaid duty and Goods and Services Tax amounting to $43,890 and $3,190, respectively.

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Singapore Police Force 9 October 2015

20 ARRESTED IN ANTI-VICE BLITZ #sgpolicearrest

20 women were arrested for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities in residential areas in the western and northern parts of Singapore. In a two-day operation from 6 to 7 October 2015, officers from Jurong Division conducted simultaneous raids at multiple locations including Woodlands, Admiralty, Bukit Batok and Jurong West, resulting in the arrests.

During the operation, boxes of condoms, lubricants, and mobile phones were seized as case exhibits. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were believed to have advertised sexual services online and carried out vice activities in residential units. Subsequent investigations will also be carried out against house owners.

Any person who contravenes the offence of being the tenant, lessee or occupier or person in charge of a brothel, and the offence of keeping, managing or assisting in the management of a brothel under Section 148 of the Women’s Charter, Chapter 353, is liable on conviction to a fine of up to a maximum of $10,000, or to imprisonment of up to five years, or both.

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14 women arrested for prostitution-related offences
14 women and a man were arrested on Friday and Saturday (Sep 7-8) during a series of police raids targeting vice activities

The women, aged between 20 and 52, were arrested for prostitution-related offences under the Women's Charter, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) said in a news release on Monday.


They were operating from hotels and rented apartments along Jalan Besar, Eu Tong Sen Street, Temple Street, Albert Street, Jalan Sultan & Smith Street.


The women had advertised their services on various social media platforms, the police said.


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162 nabbed in operation against online vice rings
In raids on online vice syndicates at multiple locations over 23 days, officers arrested 157 women & 5 men for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities. FOTO: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

In an operation that spanned 23 days and ended on Aug 7, 162 people - 157 women & 5 men aged between 19 & 48 - were arrested for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities.

The police said in a statement on Saturday that officers from the Criminal Investigation Department and six police land divisions carried out coordinated raids on online vice syndicates at multiple locations across Singapore.

These included condominiums, hotels and residential units in Geylang, Jalan Sultan, Cavenagh Road as well as Balestier Road.

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Police arrest 34 for vice and illegal gambling
25 women and 9 men between the ages of 22 and 74 were arrested in raids conducted in areas such as Jalan Besar, Lavender Street, Stamford Road and Middle Road. FOTO: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

Police arrested 34 people for their suspected involvement in vice and gambling offences after a 2-day operation by the Central Police Division, which ended on Thu (Aug 2).

The Singapore Police Force said in a statement on Saturday that 25 women and 9 men between the ages of 22 and 74 were arrested in raids conducted in areas such as Jalan Besar, Lavender Street, Stamford Road & Middle Road.

The 25 women were arrested for suspected offences under the Women's Charter and the Immigration Act, police said in the statement.

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15 arrested in police raids on massage outlets
The police arrested 12 women, aged between 24 & 38, for working without valid work permits under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. FOTO: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

15 people were arrested after police conducted raids on massage establishments & public entertainment outlets on Wed & Thu.

In a statement on Thursday, the police said that action was taken against 2 massage establishments & 3 entertainment outlets.

During checks in Tanjong Pagar Road, Lavender Street & Chinatown, a massage establishment was found to have contravened licensing conditions, while another was found to be operating as an unlicensed massage establishment.

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2 men & 11 women arrested for alleged involvement in vice-related activities
2 men & 11 women were arrested for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities, after a two-day operation by the police. FOTO: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

2 men & 11 women were arrested for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities, after a 2-day operation by the police.


The Singapore Police Force said on Friday evening (Jun 29) that it had conducted a series of raids on Wednesday and Thursday, resulting in the arrests of 13 people aged between 23 and 43.


The raids were conducted in Queen Street, Kitchener Road & Race Course Road.


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17 arrested in police raids on massage parlours, public entertainment outlets

2 women were arrested for allegedly providing sexual services at an unlicensed massage parlour, while another 13 were caught working without valid work permits at public entertainment outlets. (Foto: Singapore Police Force)

Singapore police arrested 17 individuals after conducting a raid in several unsilenced massage parlours and public entertainment outlets on Thursday, May 17.

The police confirmed the news on Friday, through a news release, where they stated that they launched the operation in the massage parlours, located at Mosque Street, Sago Street and Trengganu Street. In addition, they also mentioned that the raids also took place in some public entertainment outlets at Sam Leong Road, Upp Circular Road, Magazine Road and Boat Quay.

The police report stated that they arrested two women, aged between 21 and 27, for allegedly providing sexual services at one of the massage establishments. During the investigation police also found that one of the owners of a massage parlour has hired a foreign woman, who doesn't have a valid work pass and police arrested both of them for ignoring the law.

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38 arrested for gambling, vice activities in police raids

A three-day islandwide police operation which ended on Friday (May 18) saw 38 people arrested - including an 80-year-old - for vice, gambling and immigration-related offences.

A woman was also arrested for using criminal force against public servant.

In total, 19 women and 19 men, aged between 21 and 80 years old, were nabbed during the operation which was conducted in areas such as Jalan Besar, Beach Road, Telok Blangah Rise and Bendemeer Road.

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4 women arrested in police raids on massage parlours

Some of the women arrested in police raids on massage parlours on Thursday (May 3). (foto: S'pore Police Force)

Four women aged between 34 and 57 were arrested during a police raid on massage parlours on Thursday (May 3), the police said in a statement on Saturday.

Three of the women were arrested for offences under the Women's Charter while the fourth was arrested for managing a place of assignation, which means any place where communication is carried out with females for immoral purposes.

During the operation, officers from the Central Police Division conducted checks on four massage establishments in Circular Road, Gemmill Lane, Duxton Road and Kitchener Road.

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10 women arrested during two-week operation targeting massage parlours

5 of the women arrested during the two-week operation. (foto: SPF)

 With five closed circuit television cameras pointing towards the walkway leading to the second floor shophouse unit and a security door in place, staff at a facial spa on Upper Thomson Road should have been prepared for any visitors.

Yet three female employees and two of their male clients were caught off-guard when the police came knocking - and discovered it was an unlicensed massage establishment.

The random enforcement check by officers from the Bishan Neighbourhood Police Centre (NPC) was part of an intensive two-week islandwide operation targeting unlicensed and errant massage parlours.

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6 women arrested in raids on public entertainment outlets, massage parlours

6 women were arrested in an enforcement operation targeting public entertainment outlets and massage parlours on Tuesday (Mar 20). (foto: Singapore Police Force)

Six women were arrested in an enforcement operation against massage establishments and public entertainment outlets on Mar 20.

The police said in a news release on Mar 21 that they raided nine establishments located along Aliwal Street, Prinsep Street, Rangoon Road, Jalan Besar, North Bridge Road, Victoria Street, Lorong Telok, Jalan Klapa and Perak Road on Mar 20. The women, aged between 21 and 32, were arrested for employment-related offences.

Five massage establishments and four public entertainment outlets were also found to have contravened licensing conditions. Actions will be taken against the operators under the Public Entertainment Act and Massage Establishment Act.

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5 arrested during police raids on massage establishments

5 women, aged between 32 and 43, were arrested in a series of raids on massage establishments. (foto: SPF)

Singapore police arrested five women, aged between 32 and 43, in a series of raids on massage parlours. On Monday, the authorities said in a press release that they conducted enforcement operations at 27 massage establishments located along Tanjong Pagar, Jalan Klapa, Kitchener Road, Coleman Street, North Bridge Road and Telok Blangah Crescent between Apr 3 and Apr 6.

During the operations, 13 outlets were found to be operating without a valid licence, while two licensed operators were found to have contravened licensing conditions.

Under the new Massage Establishments Act, the operators of the unlicensed parlours will face enhanced penalties, if convicted. First time offenders will be jailed up to two years, or a fine of up to S$10,000, or both.

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10 women were arrested for providing sexual services in massage establishments


Ever since the new Massage Establishments Act (MEA) and related changes to regulatory requirements for massage establishments (MEs) came into force on 1 March 2018. The Police have stepped up enforcement efforts and conducted an intensive 2-week islandwide operation between 1 and 14 March 2018 targeting unlicensed MEs and errant licensed MEs suspected of operating vice activities.


During the operations, the Police checked 41 massage establishments across 15 neighborhoods, such as Ang Mo Kio, Bishan, Bukit Batok, Bukit Merah, Bukit Timah, Changi, Choa Chu Kang, Orchard, Jalan Besar, Jurong West, Paya Lebar, Serangoon, Tanjong Pagar, Toa Payoh and Upper Thomson.


10 women were arrested for offenses under the Women’s Charter and Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. 14 MEs were also detected to be operating without a valid license.


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8 women arrested in raid on Cuppage Plaza public entertainment outlets

Some of the women who were arrested in last Friday’s (11 January) raid on three public entertainment outlets along Koek Road. (PHOTO: Singapore Police Force)

Eight women were arrested last Thursday (11 January) in a joint enforcement operation conducted by officers from the Tanglin Police Division and Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB).


During the six-hour operation, three public entertainment outlets at Cuppage Plaza – located at 5 Koek Road – were found to have breached Public Entertainment Licensing Conditions.


According to a police news release, three of the women were arrested for appearing nude in a public place, two of whom were also caught for employment and immigration-related offences. Another five women were arrested for suspected drug-related offences, the release said.


related:

More than 90 people arrested for prostitution activities in raids across Singapore
17 women arrested for working as illegal hostesses and masseuses in 2-day raid
Suspected HDB heartland brothels see brisk business
Are heartland massage parlours rubbing residents the wrong way?

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16 women and 5 men arrested for vice, employment and gaming offences

The police conducted a raid at  entertainment outlets and massage parlours along Temasek Boulevard, Jalan Besar, Syed Alwi Road and South Bridge Road on Thursday (15 March) (PHOTO: Singapore Police Force)

Sixteen women and five men have been arrested for vice, employment and gaming offences during a police raid.


The raid took place at entertainment outlets and massage parlours along Temasek Boulevard, Jalan Besar, Syed Alwi Road and South Bridge Road on Thursday (15 March), the Singapore Police Force said in a statement on Friday.


Five women were arrested for allegedly providing sexual services in a hotel and a residential unit. Eleven women were arrested in relation to illegal employment of foreign workers.


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16 women, 5 men arrested for prostitution, gambling and other offences

5 women, believed to have provided sexual services at a hotel and residential unit, were also arrested for offences under the Women’s Charter. (Photo: SPF)

Singapore police arrested 16 women and five men on Thursday for a variety of offences, including vice activities, illegal gambling and work pass violations during enforcement checks on public entertainment outlets and massage parlours.

On Friday, the authorities said in a press release that the enforcement operations were conducted along Temasek Boulevard, Jalan Besar, Syed Alwi Road and South Bridge Road.

Out of the suspects aged between 21 and 67, 11 women were arrested for offences under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. Meanwhile, the other five women were suspected of providing sexual services at a hotel and a residential unit.

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10 women arrested in raids on errant massage parlours

2 foreign women (above) who worked at a facial spa in Upper Thomson Road raided on March 8. In one room was a tablet showing "live" camera views of the walkway outside. ST FOTO: ZAIHAN MOHAMED YUSOF

With 5 closed-circuit television cameras pointing towards the walkway leading to the second-floor shophouse unit and a security door in place, staff at a facial spa on Upper Thomson Road should have been prepared for any visitors.


Yet 3 female employees and 2 of their male clients were caught off guard when the police came knocking - and discovered it was an unlicensed massage establishment.


The random enforcement check by officers from the Bishan Neighbourhood Police Centre was part of an intensive 2-week islandwide operation targeting unlicensed and errant massage parlours.


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36 nabbed in operation targeting vice, gambling

Of the 36 arrested in a three-day operation, 18 were suspected of vice activities. (foto: Singapore Police Force)

The Central Police Division conducted a three-day operation, targeting vice and gambling activities in Little India, Jalan Besar, Chinatown and Tiong Bahru between 7 and 9 March 2018.

A total of 9 men and 27 women, aged between 27 to 78 were arrested for offences under the Women’s Charter, Employment of Foreign Workers Act, Misuse of Drugs Act, Common Gaming House Act and Remote Gambling Act.

Of the 27 women, 18 were arrested for their suspected involvement in providing sexual services from hotels and rented apartments and were believed to be residing in Singapore on Employment Passes or Short Term Visit Passes. The other 9 men and 9 women were arrested for gambling and drug-related offences. Cash amounting to $1,438 were seized as case exhibits.

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8 women arrested for appearing naked in public


Singapore police have arrested eight women for offences ranging from appearing naked in public to drug-related offences in a six-hour joint operation. Tanglin Police Division and the Central Narcotics Bureau's Enforcement E Division conducted a joint operation at public entertainment outlets in Cuppage Plaza from 11 pm last Thursday.


On Monday, the authorities said that three women were arrested for appearing nude in a public place. In addition to this, two of those women were also arrested for employment and immigration-related offences. While, five other women were arrested for drug-related offences.


According to reports, the authorities have also found three public entertainment outlets breaching public entertainment licensing conditions. The police said that the investigations against the suspects are still going on.


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Longest police blitz against heartland brothels leads to more than 90 arrests

A police vice raid at Block 512 Ang Mo Kio Ave 8. foto: Nuria Ling / TODAY

More than 90 people have been arrested for vice offences out of Housing & Development Board (HDB) flats & condominium units, following the most extensive anti-vice raid in the heartlands the police have conducted.


Raids were conducted islandwide the last 10 days by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) against heartland prostitution, covering about 40 locations, including Ang Mo Kio, Jurong West, People’s Park, & Yishun.


TODAY understands that a majority of the prostitutes had advertised their services on 2 websites, where listings for sexual services are sorted by location. Customers arrange visits via phone calls or text messages.


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8 women arrested in raid on Cuppage Plaza public entertainment outlets

Some of the women who were arrested in last Friday’s (11 January) raid on three public entertainment outlets along Koek Road. (PHOTO: Singapore Police Force)

Eight women were arrested last Thursday (11 January) in a joint enforcement operation conducted by officers from the Tanglin Police Division and Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB).


During the six-hour operation, three public entertainment outlets at Cuppage Plaza – located at 5 Koek Road – were found to have breached Public Entertainment Licensing Conditions.


According to a police news release, three of the women were arrested for appearing nude in a public place, two of whom were also caught for employment and immigration-related offences. Another five women were arrested for suspected drug-related offences, the release said.


related:

More than 90 people arrested for prostitution activities in raids across Singapore
17 women arrested for working as illegal hostesses and masseuses in 2-day raid
Suspected HDB heartland brothels see brisk business

read more


26 women investigated for suspected vice activities in unlicensed massage parlours
The women are being investigated by the Police for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities in unlicensed massage establishments. foto: Singapore Police Force

The crackdown on unlicensed massage establishments continues to gain momentum after the Central Police Division conducted a raid targeting outlets in Jalan Besar, Lavender & Little India.


Following the operation on Friday (Jan 5), a total of 26 women aged between 24 and 40 are being investigated by the Police for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities in unlicensed massage establishments.


In a media release on Sunday, the police said action will also be taken against the owners of 7 massage establishments for offences under the Massage Establishments Act & Women’s Charter.


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17 women arrested during anti-vice raids at public entertainment outlets and unlicensed massage parlors


A total of 17 women were arrested during anti-vice raids conducted by the Central Police Division on Tuesday and Wednesday at public entertainment outlets and unlicensed massage establishments in the Jalan Besar and Little India areas, according to a statement issued by the police yesterday.


Six women, aged between 21 and 43, were nabbed for allegedly providing sexual services while working illegally at massage joints. Three massage places were also discovered to be operating without proper licences.


“Actions will be taken against the owners of these unlicensed massage establishments,” the statement added.


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13 women arrested for offering sexual services in Sembawang, Sengkang

In addition to the arrests, police also seized cash amounting to $1,970 and mobile phones as case exhibits. PHOTO: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

Thirteen women were arrested for offering sexual services in residential units in Sembawang and Sengkang this month, the police said in a statement on Friday (Dec 29).

The women, aged between 22 and 49, had been advertising their sexual services on websites and were operating in residential areas.

They were arrested under the Women's Charter for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities as part of anti-vice operations conducted by the Ang Mo Kio Police Division in December.

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18 women arrested for offering sexual services at private apartments, hotels

18 women were arrested for offering sexual services at apartments and hotels including at Rangoon Road (pictured).FOTO: SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE

Eighteen women were arrested for offering sexual services at private apartments & hotels, the police said on Saturday (Dec 23).


The women were part of a group of 23 women & 9 men who were nabbed for offences under the Women's Charter, Employment of Foreign Workers Act, Common Gaming House Act & Remote Gambling Act.


The Central Police Division had made the arrests after a 5-day operation that began on Monday at Jalan Besar Road, Rangoon Road, Road, Sing Joo Walk, Race Course Lane, Beach Road, Stamford Road, Cross Street & Kampong Bahru Road.


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11 women arrested for providing sexual services in massage parlours
11 women were arrested by the police on Tuesday (Dec 12) in the latest in a series of enforcement operations against vice related activities in December. foto: Singapore Police Force

11 women were arrested by the police on Tuesday (Dec 12) in the latest in a series of enforcement operations against vice related activities in December.


The police said in a press release on Thursday the women were nabbed while authorities were conducting enforcement operations against unlicensed massage establishments in Jalan Bukit Merah, Tanjong Pagar & South Bridge Road.


The women, whose ages range from 28 to 40, will be charged for offences under the Women’s Charter and Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.


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18 women arrested for vice activities in 5-day operation
Of the 32 arrested, 18 women were arrested for suspected involvement in providing sexual services at private apartments & hotels. foto: SPF

A total of 32 people have been arrested by the police in a 5-day anti-vice operation that started on Monday (Dec 18) & ended on Friday.


Of the 32 arrests, 18 women were apprehended for suspected involvement in providing sexual services at private apartments & hotels.


The remaining 5 women and 9 men were arrested for employment and gambling offences, the police said in a statement on Saturday.


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Singapore clamps down harder on unlicensed massage businesses

File foto of women involved in a massage establishment raid by police (fotos: Singapore Police Force)

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) promised “tougher action” against unlicensed massage establishments (MEs) as it enacted new legislation in Parliament on Monday (Nov 6).


As she detailed proposed changes first laid out last month, 2nd Minister Josephine Teo noted that many unlicensed MEs were in fact fronts for vice activities and “the proverbial wolf in sheep’s clothing”.


“There is a clear difference between licensed & unlicensed MEs. In 2016, Police enforcement found less than 3% of licensed MEs to have vice-related infringements. This is significantly lower than the 40% of unlicensed MEs with vice-related offences,” she said.


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Law and Home Affairs Minister, K Shanmugam
[ Police raids on illegal brothels ]

There have been some comments on the nature of police raids on illegal brothels. They break down doors, wear masks and so on. And that all of this is wrong.


I fully support the Police in their actions and the tactics they have adopted.


Speed and surprise are key elements during raids. Police cannot be expected to knock on the door, and wait for a response.


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Shanmugam throws weight behind police raids on illegal brothel


Law and Home Affairs Minister, K Shanmugam, has come out to fully support police actions against illegal brothels. Videos of the raids by Police uploaded by Project X Director, Vanessa Ho, had earlier gone viral. Some netizens had commented that the Police actions seem high-handed.


Project X was established in November 2008 by Wong Yock Leng, a social worker who recognized that sex workers in Singapore are amongst the most marginalized and discriminated in society, and saw a gap in services for the sex worker community.


Mr Shanmugam lambasted such criticisms as “deeply flawed”. He further described such netizens’ sympathies for those in the brothels as “misplaced”.


related: POLICE ACCUSED OF TERRORISING WOMEN BY USING BATTERING RAMS, SLEDGEHAMMERS DURING BROTHEL RAID


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Police raids on illegal brothels, right or wrong?


There was a police raid of an brothel near popular supper spot, Swee Choon Tim Sum, on Friday Dec 8.


According to a Facebook account, the police wore full ski masks and allegedly used battering rams and sledgehammers.


The post has since been deleted but this was what it said:

  • “Police raid of an unlicensed brothel. I wasn’t exaggerating when I said they use battering rams and sledgehammers. In fact, I saw that they also used a circular saw and wore balaclavas. As Sherry puts it, “they think of their safety first but not the workers”. The whole area smelled like burning metal for a moment. A huge crowd gathered, adding to the spectacle. And to make matters worse, the media was invited and I got to witness first hand how they make the women pose with their faces to the walls in order to shame them.
  • “This is what your taxpayers money are put to: groups of armed men terrorizing women.”
  • The Internet is divided on this. Some criticised the police while others defending them for doing their duty.

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3 women arrested after police raid suspected HDB 'brothel' in Jurong West

The 3 woman aged between 34 & 48 were arrested for suspected offences under the Women's Charter. FOTO: SHIN MIN DAILY NEWS

A 4-room Housing Board flat in Jurong West suspected of operating as a brothel was raided by police on Tuesday (Oct 31) afternoon.


3 women between the ages of 34 & 48 were arrested. The Straits Times understands that they are from China.


Condoms & lubricants were seized from the flat.


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Three women arrested for offering sexual services in Jurong West HDB ‘brothel’

The women were arrested during a raid by Jurong Division officers at Jurong West Street 65 on Wed (Oct 21).

They were on valid social visit passes, but allegedly used them commit vice-related offences, the police said.


The women had advertised their sexual services on various online websites, condoms & lubricants were seized as case exhibits.


According to a report by Lianhe Wanbao on Friday, the raid was carried out at the 14th floor of a block in Jurong West Street 65.


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Heartland brothels make residents see red
The flat (centre, with dim red light) in Jurong West Street 61 where a brothel operates. Residents said that for the last one year, the rented unit has housed a number of foreign women

From the outside, the four-room Housing Board flat in Jurong West Street 61 looked innocuous enough, except for the constant stream of men who flock there.

Residents said that for the last one year, the rented unit has housed a number of foreign women, and some were shocked to learn that it operates as a brothel.

Despite a number of raids in the area, such brothels keep returning, attracted by low rents and the belief that they are less likely to be detected there.

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4 women who appeared nude in KTV joint arrested during a Police raid

Photo Credit: Singapore Police Force

3 men and 14 women were arrested following an 8-hour joint enforcement operation that commenced at 10 pm on 15 April 2017.

The operation was led by Tanglin Division and supported by officers from Criminal Investigations Department, Traffic Police, Central Narcotics Bureau Enforcement“E” Division and the 1st Singapore Civil Defence Force Division.

A total of 9 public entertainment outlets were checked. 1 of them was found to have breached the Public Entertainment Licensing Conditions while 4 were found to have breached the Fire Safety Rules and Regulations.

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Foreign Women Arrested for Turning Jurong West Flat into Prostitution Den

Three women who are foreigners between the age of 37 and 42 have been arrested for providing sexual services. They were found to be in Singapore on social visit passes, but allegedly used them to engage in prostitution-related activities. Police raided a 14th floor flat at Jurong West St 65 on Wed (21 Jun) and arrested the women.


One of them had apparently just arrived in Singapore and had not even unpacked her luggage, in which the police found two large bags containing condoms. The woman are believed to have advertised sexual services on various websites. Neighbours say they often saw strangers pacing the corridor outside the unit, and they were glad the women had been arrested.


This arrest follows a high-profile bust in May involving atas Russian prostitutes who serviced high-end clients. The prostitutes used a Bella Casita condominium unit in Tanjong Katong as their base of operations.


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68 people arrested for suspected vice activities

Police have arrested 68 people after a 6-hour operation at businesses which were suspected of conducting vice activities.


On Aug 13 to 14, officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and Tanglin Police Division mounted a six-hour operation at 9 public entertainment outlets and an office in the vicinity of Orchard Road.


According to the police, 53 females aged between 19 & 35 were arrested for suspected involvement in vice activities. 10 men and 5 women, aged between 22 and 54, were also taken in for suspected involvement as members of a vice syndicate.


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Prostitution in Singapore – are the police doing enough to combat it?

In Singapore, prostitution is legal, but public solicitation, living on the earnings of prostitution and operating a brothel is illegal. The government regulates prostitution rather than trying to eradicate it, but nevertheless illegal sex workers saturate the industry. The problem is showing no sign of going away.


There are an estimated 1,000 or more licensed sex workers in Singapore, and 95% of those come from abroad. Yet thousands more choose – or are forced – to work without a license. Unable to access the same protection the state offers licensed workers, illegal sex workers will either work from massage or beauty parlours or cut out the middleman altogether and set up a profile online which they use to pick up clients.


As Director of Health Education and Research at HOME (The Humanitarian Organization for Migration Economics) Dr. Thein Than Win explains, “In the licensed brothels, everything is in place: mandatory health screenings, condoms. But for the illegal sex workers, the transient ones, there are no health services, education or testing services for them.”


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Sex trade in Geylang goes online to avoid crackdown by police

Sex trade in Geylang goes online to avoid crackdown by police

Online vice is on the rise & the authorities have changed the laws to combat it. Changes to the Women's Charter kicked in on July 1 and they include a new section, 146A, which targets those who operate or maintain websites which offer sexual services or allow prostitutes to advertise. Those convicted can be fined up to $10,000 or jailed for up to 5 years, or both.


Section 146 was also tweaked to make clear that it is an offence for a person to live on or receive various forms of gratification in return for helping in the prostitution of another person. The changes are a response to how the Internet has affected the world's oldest industry - the sex trade. Instead of having highly visible red-light districts, the shift online has made prostitution a more hidden & discreet business.


It means prostitutes no longer need middlemen - agencies & pimps - to source for clients or to provide a venue. And many have decided to have a go at it alone.


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Two men caught with pants down in anti-vice raid


2 men & their female partners were literally caught with their pants down when enforcement officers barged in on them in a room at an entertainment outlet in Burmah Road.


The 2 women were among 41 foreign women, believed to be working as guest relation officers, who were nabbed during Ops Sayang conducted by the state Immigration Department.

The women rounded up from both raids comprised 30 Vietnamese, 10 Chinese nationals & a Thai.


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24 foreigners arrested for vice activities in Jalan Besar hotel


Police officers swooped in on a hotel at Jalan Besar Road on Tuesday (May 17), arresting 24 foreigners - 23 women & a man, for suspected involvement in vice-related activities.


The suspects, aged between 20 and 33 were found to have made use of their stay in Singapore on valid social visit passes to offer sexual services.


According to a statement from the S'pore Police Force, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects have been advertising their sexual services on different online platforms & vice websites.


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Police nab 24 foreign prostitutes in Jalan Besar hotel

Suspected prostitutes are seen sitting on a bed after they were detained by the police in a hotel along Jalan Besar Road, May 17, 2017. Photo: S'pore Police Force

A total of 24 foreigners were hauled in by the police for their suspected involvement in prostitution after law enforcers conducted a raid on a hotel along Jalan Besar Road on Wed (May 17) morning.

The police said in a press release on Wednesday that the suspects, 23 women & a man, had advertised their sexual services on various online platforms and vice-related websites.


TODAY understands that 23 of the suspects – including the man - are from Thailand. The other is from Laos.


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'High-class' Russian vice ring busted; 4 women arrested

Some of the female foreigners arrested for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities. (Photo: SPF)

4 foreign women were arrested on Thursday (May 4) for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities, the police said on Friday.


3 of the women are from Russia and one is from Uzbekistan, and their ages range between 26 and 39, according to the police in their press release.


Their arrests came about after Criminal Investigation Department (CID) officers conducted simultaneous raids in Raffles Boulevard, Tanjong Katong Road & Cairnhill Road on Thursday. The women allegedly made use of their stay in Singapore on valid work passes to commit vice-related offences, police said.


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Police arrest 176 suspects in four-day anti-crime blitz
A total of 176 suspects aged between 18 & 82 were arrested for their involvement illegal employment, vice activities, gambling and drug-related offences. FOTO: SPF

Police have arrested a total of 176 suspects, aged between 18 & 82, in a series of anti-crime operations held over 4 days.


They are currently under investigation for suspected involvement in illegal employment, vice activities, gambling & drug-related offences.


The multi-agency operation, led by Central Division, covered a wide area in the central part of Singapore.


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Dhoby Ghaut spa 'almost like a brothel'
OPEN FOR BUSINESS: The outside of one of the massage parlours

A total of 75 people were arrested in a series of enforcement operations conducted by the police between Jun 23 and 26 at 8 unlicensed massage establishments and 8 public entertainment outlets at Orchard Road, Upper Thomson Road, Upper Paya Lebar Road and Balestier Road. 


The 4-day operation saw 66 women and nine men aged between 19 and 51 arrested for various criminal and employment related offences.


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Police conducted checks at both spas

What you will see as you enter one of the massage parlours

The 2 massage parlours are known to the police, a police spokesman tells TNPS.


In Mar this year, the police conducted enforcement checks at the Prinsep Street massage parlour. They did the same at the Sophia Road massage parlour in May.


Says the spokesman: "Actions have been taken against offenders under the Massage Establishment Act and the Immigration Act.


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36 nabbed in suspected brothels in HDB heartland

About a month ago, her immediate neighbours of 8 years moved out after renting out their 5-room flat in Woodlands.

Soon after the tenants moved in, their common corridor on the 4th storey became a daily hive of activity. Men would pace up and down while looking at their mobile phones.

The resident, who wanted to be known only as Madam K, told The New Paper yesterday that her husband also saw women, who lived in the flat, leaving in the middle of the night, never to return. Other women would then move in.

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Vice in Woodlands: From HDB brothel to illegal hotel?
A suspected prostitute in a Woodlands flat earlier this month: 36 people were arrested in the island-wide raid of suspected brothels in the HDB heartland.FOTO: WANBAO FILE

Some HDB heartlanders are wondering what's taking place behind closed doors at this Woodlands flat.


The unit used to be a heartland brothel, with strangers turning up at all hours of the day and even late into the night.


These unfamiliar faces were all men, who looked to be in their 30s to 50s.


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130 arrested in overnight crime blitz
Suspects apprehended during the blitz. Photo: Singapore Police Force

130 suspects comprizing 48 men & 82 women were arrested during an overnight crime blitz yesterday (Aug 30).
A police statement said the suspects, who were aged between 18 & 73, had been arrested for various offences.

76 had been arrested for offences involving illegal employment and the rest were apprehended for illegal gaming, unlawful assembly, drink driving and other criminal offences.

The joint anti-crime operation had been led by Central Police Division and supported by officers from Criminal Investigation Department, Traffic Police, Central Narcotics Bureau and Singapore Civil Defence Force.

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