The Police conducted an enforcement operation targeting massage establishments operating along Upper Serangoon Road and Hougang Street 21 on 25 February 2021.
During the operation conducted by Ang Mo Kio Police Division, three massage establishments were found to be operating without a valid license, while vice-related activities were detected at another licensed massage establishment. Police investigations are ongoing.
Under the Massage Establishment Act 2017, operators of unlicensed massage establishments are liable for enhanced penalties. The offence of carrying on a business of providing massage services in an establishment for massage without a valid license carries a fine not exceeding S$10,000, or an imprisonment of up to two years, or both. For repeat offenders, the offence carries a fine not exceeding S$20,000, or imprisonment of up to five years, or both.
Under the Massage Establishment Rules 2018, operators who fail to ensure that staff do not provide sexual services are liable, on conviction, to a fine of up to S$5,000. For repeat offenders, the offence carries a fine of up to S$10,000, or to imprisonment not exceeding two years, or both.
The Police will also take action against landlords who knowingly lease their premises to unlicensed operators.
The Police take a serious view against any person who may be involved in such illicit business operations and perpetrators will be dealt with sternly in accordance to the law.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
26 February 2021 @ 11:45 PM