3-day police raid targets Geylang alleys, entertainment outlets

SINGAPORE - A series of police raids conducted over three days targeting coffeeshops, entertainment outlets and back alleys at Geylang have resulted in the arrest of 24 men aged between 18 and 68.

The joint raids started on Friday (Feb 26) and ended on Sunday morning, involving agencies like the Criminal Investigation Department, Police Intelligence Department, and the Central Narcotics Bureau.

The men were arrested in connection with illegal public gaming, and for being suspected members of unlawful societies, the police said in a statement.

Gambling related items were also seized in the raids, including chips, dice and playing mats.

Investigations are ongoing.

Those promoting gaming in public places may be fined not less than $20,000 and up to $200,000, and imprisoned up to five years upon conviction. Participants may be fined up to $5,000 or imprisoned up to six months or both upon conviction.

Members of unlawful societies may be fined up to $5,000 or imprisoned up to 3 years or both upon conviction.

grongloh@sph.com.sg