17 women nabbed during latest anti-vice raids

SINGAPORE — A total of 17 women have been arrested during enforcement operations against public entertainment outlets and unlicensed massage establishments situated in Jalan Besar and Little India.

The Central Police Division conducted the raids on Tuesday (Jan 9) and Wednesday, said a press statement issued by the police on Wednesday night.

Six women aged between 21 and 43, who were providing sexual services and working illegally as masseurs, were arrested for offences under the Women’s Charter and Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.

Three outlets were also found to be providing massage services without valid licences.

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

Additionally, 11 women working illegally as hostesses in the public entertainment outlets located along Jalan Besar and Syed Alwi Road, were arrested for offences under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.

The police said that actions will be taken against the public entertainment operators for providing illegal employment as they have contravened the Public Entertainment Licence conditions.

Just last month, a total of 32 people were arrested in a five-day anti-vice operation From Dec 18 to 22.

The blitz was centred along Jalan Besar Road, Rangoon Road, Sing Joo Walk, Race Course Lane, Beach Road, Stamford Road, Cross Street and Kampong Bahru Road.