S'pore police arrest 13 men, aged 21-39, during island-wide secret societies raids

The Singapore 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 May 22 and 23.

The operation was led by the Secret Societies Branch of the Criminal Investigation Department and supported by Ang Mo Kio, Tanglin, Jurong and Woodlands Police Divisions, the police said in a Jun. 4 release.

About 35 public entertainment outlets, nightlife establishments and food and beverage outlets, as well as close to 100 persons were checked during the island-wide operation.

Police investigations against all 13 men are ongoing.

Penalties

Anyone found guilty of being a member of an unlawful society under the Societies Act 1966 shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding S$10,000, a jail term not exceeding three years, or both.

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

"We 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," the police added.

The police also said firm action will be taken against anyone who is associated with the secret societies and choose to flout the law.

The police also advised the public to steer clear of secret society activities and to report those engaging in such unlawful activities to the police immediately.