14 women arrested for vice-related activities and infringements in island-wide operation

Fourteen women aged between 32 and 44 were arrested for their suspected involvement in vice-related activities and infringements in a joint operation by officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and Ministry of Manpower (MOM) on Aug 24.

Simultaneous raids were conducted at multiple locations island-wide including Jalan Besar, Selegie Road, Mackenzie Road, Serangoon Road, Woodlands, Ang Mo Kio and Jurong East.

Two mobile phones and one desktop computer were some of the items seized as case exhibits during the operation.

Under Section 146 (1) of the Women’s Charter, any person who knowingly lives wholly or in part on the earnings of the prostitution of another person shall be liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years and shall also be liable to a fine not exceeding S$10,000.

MOM reminds all employers to make accurate declarations while applying for a work pass, and that making false declarations is a serious offence.

If found guilty, employers can face a fine of up to $20,000 or jailed for up to two years or to both, per charge, under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (EFMA).

The police said in a release:

"The authorities take a serious view on vice activities as well as infringements under the EFMA, and will not hesitate to take tough enforcement action against those who commit crime and illegal activities."

Investigations by both the police and MOM on all the suspects and their employers are ongoing.