Several massage parlours along North Bridge Road have come under scrutiny after women were reportedly seen outside the establishments approaching passing men and allegedly offering services beyond conventional massages.
According to a report by Shin Min Daily News, a reader raised concerns after observing women in revealing outfits standing outside several massage parlours in the area during the evenings. The women were reportedly seen actively approaching men walking past the shops.
The reader was concerned that the activities could involve illicit services and potentially affect neighbouring businesses that operate legitimate massage establishments.
Reporter approached by women outside parlour
A Shin Min reporter subsequently visited the area and found three massage parlours located next to one another in a row of shophouses.
The report said one or two women wearing revealing clothing were positioned outside each establishment. Inside the three shops, at least seven or eight women were reportedly observed sitting around the premises.
At one of the parlours, a woman reportedly waved towards the reporter before smiling and asking whether they wanted a massage. When the reporter asked whether “special services” were available, the woman allegedly replied, “Come in first and we’ll talk about it.”
She reportedly attempted to pull the reporter towards the entrance while giving the same response when asked about the price. According to the report, she appeared cautious about discussing the details outside the premises.
The interaction has since raised questions over whether some massage establishments in the area could be operating beyond the services stated on their businesses.
Curtains block view into one establishment
The report also noted that one of the parlours had curtains covering both its entrance and exterior, making it difficult for people outside to see what was happening inside.
Meanwhile, Shin Min spoke with several massage parlour operators in the surrounding area that were understood to provide legitimate services. The owners reportedly declined to comment directly on the establishments facing suspicion.
One owner simply remarked that increased numbers of massage parlours would naturally mean greater competition.
The allegations do not, by themselves, establish that the businesses were providing illegal services. Any offences would ultimately have to be determined by the relevant authorities based on investigations and available evidence.
For residents and businesses in the North Bridge Road area, however, the reported solicitation has renewed attention on how massage establishments operate in busy commercial neighbourhoods, particularly where several similar businesses are located close together.