Twenty arrested in multi-agency raids targeting vice and illegal activities in Geylang and Joo Chiat

SINGAPORE: A total of eight men and 12 women, aged between 24 and 55, were arrested during enforcement operations in Geylang and Joo Chiat on 20 and 27 June 2025. The operations, led by Bedok Police Division and supported by multiple agencies, targeted a range of offences to curb vice and illicit activities in these areas.

According to a statement by the police on 2 July, the multi-agency operations involved officers from the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB), Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA), and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). Traffic Police officers also conducted anti-drink driving checks as part of the coordinated efforts.

Unlicensed work and illegal massage outlets

Among those arrested were 12 women, aged between 32 and 50, who were found working without valid work passes at public entertainment outlets in Geylang and Joo Chiat. Under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act 1990, offenders may face fines of up to S$20,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both.

In Geylang, a hair salon along Geylang Road was found providing massage services without a valid licence. Two other salons, though licensed, were discovered operating beyond their stipulated closing time of 10.30pm. All three outlets are under investigation under the Massage Establishments Act 2017, which carries penalties of fines up to S$10,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both.

Entertainment outlets under investigation

Checks at two public entertainment outlets in Joo Chiat revealed that performing artistes were mingling with patrons, a breach of the Public Entertainment Act 1985. These outlets are now under investigation, and offending licensees risk fines and potential suspension or cancellation of their licences.

Fire safety violations were also uncovered at one entertainment outlet in Geylang, including non-maintenance of fire safety equipment and obstructions to emergency escape routes. Such breaches pose significant safety risks to patrons and staff.

Drink-driving, contraband, and drug offences

On the roads, seven motorists aged between 24 and 55 were arrested for drink-driving under the Road Traffic Act 1961. One 26-year-old man was also found driving without a valid licence and insurance coverage.

Another 48-year-old male motorcyclist was arrested for possessing duty-unpaid cigarettes and e-vaporisers. He was further detained for suspected drug-related offences, with the contraband referred to Singapore Customs and the Health Sciences Authority for further action.

Additionally, four men and two women, aged between 33 and 69, are assisting with investigations relating to breaches of public entertainment licensing conditions.

Police commend cooperation across agencies

Commander of Bedok Police Division, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police Justin Wong, said the operations demonstrate the authorities’ commitment to stamping out illegal activities and safeguarding public order. He praised the collaborative efforts of all participating agencies and commended officers for their professionalism and teamwork.

“This operation is part of our continuous efforts to clamp down on vice and drug-related activities in Geylang and Joo Chiat, and demonstrates the agencies’ commitment to upholding public safety and compliance with regulations,” he said.

Geylang has been identified as one of nine locations where new public entertainment licences are unlikely to be granted, as part of efforts to manage law and order concerns and curb the proliferation of such establishments.