13 men, aged 21-39, arrested for being suspected members of unlawful societies in S'pore

The police have arrested 13 men, aged between 21 and 39, for being suspected members of unlawful societies during an island-wide secret societies suppression operation conducted on Nov. 28 and 29.

The operation was led by the Secret Societies Branch of the Criminal Investigation Department and supported by Ang Mo Kio, Tanglin, Clementi, Jurong and Woodlands Police Divisions.

Close to 100 persons and about 40 public entertainment outlets, nightlife establishments, as well as food and beverage outlets, were checked during the island-wide operation.

Police investigations against the 13 men are ongoing.

Anyone found guilty of being a member of an unlawful society can be jailed up to three years, fined up to S$10,000, or both.

The Singapore police said they have zero tolerance towards any secret society and unlawful activities that threaten public safety, peace, and good order of the community.

They will conduct regular enforcement operations at various public entertainment, nightlife establishments and popular congregation hotspots throughout the year-end festive season.

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.

All photos via Singapore Police Force