75 men, aged 16 to 54, arrested for being suspected members of unlawful societies

A total of 75 men, aged between 16 and 54, have been arrested for being suspected members of unlawful societies during island-wide enforcement operations from December 24 to 30.

In a statement on Wednesday (Dec 30), the police said they have stepped up on enforcement operations to deter gang activities that threaten public safety.

"Proactive checks were conducted at various congregation hotspots, including F&B outlets and shopping malls, to suppress secret society activities," they added.

"The police will continue to monitor the situation and conduct enforcement operations island-wide to take action against gang activities that threaten public safety."

Police investigations are ongoing.

Anyone found guilty of being members of an unlawful society may face a fine of up to $5,000 and/or a jail term of up to three years.

"The police have zero tolerance towards secret society activities and will not hesitate to take strong action, in accordance with the law, against those who choose to be associated with gangs," they added in the statement.

"This includes invoking the Criminal Law (Temporary Provisions) Act that provides for detention without trial, against anyone involved in secret society and criminal activities that threatens the public safety, peace and good order.

"Members of the public are advised to steer clear of secret society activities and to report those engaging in such unlawful activities to the police immediately."

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