Nation

Shocking 33 Arrests Made During Anti-Vice Crackdown at Geylang Coffee Shop!

2024-10-09

Author: Sarah

Shocking 33 Arrests Made During Anti-Vice Crackdown at Geylang Coffee Shop!

SINGAPORE: In a stunning operation, authorities arrested 33 individuals on the night of October 7 for suspected involvement in vice activities and illegal employment offenses. This multi-agency initiative took place at a coffee shop in Geylang Lorong 29 and was observed by media personnel documenting the police in action.

As reporters arrived around 9:40 PM, they witnessed officers conducting interviews with groups of women, some of whom were believed to be providing companionship services. While a few women claimed they were in Singapore solely for socializing over drinks, many possessed Vietnamese and Chinese passports, indicating their varied backgrounds.

Police seized essential items from the women, including passports, work permit cards, and mobile phones, indicating serious breaches of immigration laws. The arrested individuals ranged in age from 21 to 54, highlighting the diverse nature of the group. Some faced charges for working without proper permits, while others were implicated under the Women's Charter for managing places where immoral activities were allegedly facilitated.

The sensitivity of the charges could lead to severe penalties, with offenders facing lengthy jail terms or substantial fines. Repeat offenders in particular could pay the price, facing potential fines of up to S$150,000 and seven years in prison.

But that wasn't all — while they were at the coffee shop, officers uncovered three individuals aged 31 to 59 allegedly conducting illegal lottery operations. Police confiscated over S$140 in cash, along with items related to betting, indicating a broader concern about illegal gambling in the area. Charges for these offenses can lead to fines soaring up to S$500,000 and lengthy imprisonment.

Adding to the explosive nature of the night, a 66-year-old with a liquor license is also under investigation for supplying alcohol outside the terms of their license, an offense punishable by a fine up to S$10,000.

In a stern warning, Superintendent Lim Hao Jun, head of the specialized crime branch of the Criminal Investigation Department, stated that the police will continue collaborating with government agencies to clamp down on unlawful activities and will ensure that offenders are met with strict legal consequences.

As authorities ramp up their efforts against vice-related activities, one can only wonder what further revelations will unfold from this ongoing investigation in the highly scrutinized area of Geylang! Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.