88 people investigated following enforcement operations at massage and 'KTV-concept' outlets

SINGAPORE — Eighty-eight people are being investigated by the authorities following islandwide operations conducted between Aug 2 and 8 at 92 massage establishments and 23 public entertainment outlets.

In a news release on Tuesday (Aug 10), the police said that 42 of the 88 people are being investigated for alleged breaches of Covid-19 regulations at four unlicensed "KTV-concept" outlets.

“As part of the operations, the police had raided four unlicensed KTV-concept outlets, located along Ubi Avenue 3, Kaki Bukit Road 1, Lorong 8 Toa Payoh and Desker Road.

“Four men and a woman, aged between 18 and 31, are also being investigated for alleged offences under the Public Entertainments Act and Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act, for their suspected involvement in managing these unlicensed public entertainment outlets,” they added. 

In addition, 24 massage establishments are suspected of committing various breaches under the Massage Establishments Act and Covid-19 regulations.

At four premises, officers found masseuses and customers allegedly not wearing a mask during the massage services.

A 10-day closure order and S$1,000 fine have been issued against these businesses, while the customers will be fined S$300 for breaching public health regulations.

“Investigations against 46 persons, comprising operators, masseuses and customers are ongoing,” the police said.

Under the Massage Establishments Act, those found carrying on a business of providing massage services in an establishment for massage without a valid licence can be fined S$10,000 or jailed up to two years, or both.

For breaching prescribed rules and conditions, they can be fined up to S$5,000.

Repeat offenders face stiffer penalties, the police said.

Those who fail to comply with safe distancing regulations can be jailed for up to six months or fined up to S$10,000, or both, while those who supply liquor or provide public entertainment without a licence can be fined a maximum of S$20,000 each.

“Members of the public and businesses are advised to take the prevailing safe management measures seriously,” the police said.

“The police have zero tolerance for irresponsible behaviour relating to the flouting of these measures and offenders will be dealt with firmly in accordance with the law.”