130 nabbed in Little India, Jalan Besar anti-crime blitz

SINGAPORE — An anti-crime blitz that began on Saturday night and lasted into the wee hours of yesterday morning saw 130 people arrested for various offences such as illegal gambling and drink-driving.

The nine-hour operation led by Central Police Division was carried out in the Little India and Jalan Besar areas, and was supported by officers from the Criminal Investigation Department, the Traffic Police, the Central Narcotics Bureau and the Singapore Civil Defence Force.

The suspects comprise 48 men and 82 women aged between 18 and 73. Of these, 76 were arrested for offences involving illegal employment and the rest were apprehended for illegal gaming, unlawful assembly, drink-driving and other criminal offences.

The police raided three illegal gambling dens, and four entertainment outlets — KTV lounges and pubs — were found to have possibly breached Public Entertainment Licensing conditions. TODAY understands that these outlets may have been illegally employing foreign women as hostesses.

Road blocks were also set up to complement and augment the enforcement action. Investigations against all persons arrested are ongoing.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Police Daniel Tan, who is the Central Police Division commander, expressed his appreciation to all the agencies involved in a statement.

“The police will continue to work closely with our enforcement counterparts to eradicate criminal activities and keep our streets clean. This serves as a warning to those who conduct or take part in illegal activities. Offenders will be dealt with in accordance with the law.”