The Police have arrested seven men, aged between 21 and 52, for various offences during a series of joint operations conducted between 29 March 2022 and 2 April 2022, following the relaxation of safe management measures. The operations were led by the Secret Societies Branch of the Criminal Investigation Department and supported by the seven Police Land Divisions.
A total of 84 public entertainment and nightlife establishments, food and beverage outlets and 234 persons were checked during the island-wide operations. A total of five men, aged between 21 and 40, were arrested for being suspected members of unlawful societies. Another two men were also arrested for the following offences:
- A 28-year-old man was arrested in connection to a rioting case in August 2021 under Section 147 of the Penal Code, Chapter 224.
- A 52-year-old man was arrested for possession and consumption of controlled drugs under Section 8(a) and Section 8(b) of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1973.
Police investigations against all seven 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 to an imprisonment term of up to three years, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. The offence of rioting is punishable under Section 147 of the Penal Code 1871, with an imprisonment term of up to seven years and shall also be liable to caning. Anyone convicted of the offence of possession of controlled drugs under Section 8(a) of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1973 shall be liable to an imprisonment term of up to 10 years, a fine of up to $20,000, or both. The offence of consumption of controlled drugs under Section 8(b) of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1973 is punishable with an imprisonment term of up to three years, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.
The Police will continue its proactive enforcement effort to suppress criminal and secret society activities as safe management measures are being relaxed. Firm action will be taken against anyone who is found to be associated with secret societies and choose to flout the law. Members of the public are also advised to steer clear of any unlawful activities, and to report those engaging in such unlawful activities to the Police immediately.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
05 April 2022 @ 9:50 PM