13 MEN ARRESTED FOR BEING SUSPECTED TO BE MEMBERS OF UNLAWFUL SOCIETIES DURING POLICE OPERATIONS AT PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT AND NIGHTLIFE ESTABLISHMENTS
The Police have arrested 13 men, aged between 19 and 26, for being suspected members of unlawful societies during a series of secret society suppression operations conducted between 10 to 17 March 2023. The operations were led by the Secret Societies Branch of the Criminal Investigation Department and supported by the seven Police Land Divisions.
More than 40 public entertainment outlets, nightlife establishments and food & beverage outlets, as well as close to 150 persons were also checked during the island-wide operations. Police investigations against all 13 individuals are ongoing.
Anyone found guilty of being a member of an unlawful society under Section 14(3) of the Societies Act 1966 shall be liable on conviction to imprisonment for up to three years, a fine of up to $5,000, or both.
The Police have zero tolerance towards any secret society and unlawful activities that threaten the public safety, peace, and good order of the community, and will continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders to conduct regular enforcement operations at the various public entertainment and nightlife establishments and popular congregation hotspots. Firm action will be taken against anyone who is associated with the secret societies and choose to flout the law. Members of the public are also advised to steer clear of secret society activities and to report those engaging in such unlawful activities to the Police immediately.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
17 March 2023 @ 10:17 AM
Gangsterism in Singapore
Gangsters, also known as secret society members or triad members, have a long history in Singapore. These criminal organizations engage in activities such as illegal gambling, loan sharking, drug trafficking, and extortion. The government of Singapore takes a tough stance on these activities and has implemented measures to combat the activities of gangs and their members.
The presence of gangs in Singapore can be traced back to the early 19th century, during the colonial era. The gangs were primarily formed by Chinese immigrants who came to Singapore to seek employment opportunities. These gangs provided a sense of community and protection for the members, but they also engaged in criminal activities.
In modern times, the government of Singapore has taken strong measures to combat the activities of gangs and their members. The police have increased their surveillance and enforcement efforts to disrupt the activities of these criminal organizations. The government has also introduced legislation to criminalize gang activities and to enhance the penalties for gang-related offenses.
The government has also worked to address the root causes of gang membership. This includes providing education and employment opportunities for at-risk youth, as well as promoting social cohesion and community engagement.
Despite these efforts, gangs continue to exist in Singapore. The police have reported incidents of gang-related violence and criminal activity in recent years. However, the government’s efforts to combat gang activities have been successful in reducing the prevalence and impact of gangs in Singapore.