Multi-agency raid in Joo Chiat: 15 people arrested, drugs and weapons seized
A multi-agency crackdown on public entertainment outlets in Joo Chiat on Nov 8 led to the arrest of 12 men and three women, aged between 19 and 63.
They were arrested for various offences, including working without a valid work permit, suspected drink driving, driving without a valid licence and insurance, suspected drug offences, and possession of scheduled weapons.
Another 11 men, aged between 29 and 62, are currently under investigation for possession of e-vaporisers and breaches of the Fire Safety Act 1993 and Environmental Public Health (Food Hygiene) Regulations.
Additionally, two entertainment venues are being investigated for violating public entertainment licensing conditions.
The operation, led by the Bedok Police Division and supported by the Traffic Police, the Police K-9 unit, Central Narcotics Bureau, Health Sciences Authority, Immigration and Checkpoints Authority, Singapore Civil Defence Force, and Singapore Food Agency, took place in Joo Chiat.
The Traffic Police also conducted ringfencing operations in the area to assist.
While the law and order situation in Joo Chiat has improved over the years, Joo Chiat remains a hotspot for public entertainment outlets, the police said.
They conduct regular enforcement operations to keep the situation in check.
This multi-agency enforcement operation is part of Bedok Police Division's continuous efforts to clamp down on illicit activities and regulatory offences in the area.
Among the items seized were suspected controlled drugs, drug paraphernalia, and scheduled weapons.
Commanding Officer of Marine Parade Neighbourhood Police Centre, Deputy Superintendent of Police Benjamin Tan said, "Any public entertainment licensing breaches and unlawful activities will be sternly dealt with by the police.
Thanks to the continued efforts of government agencies and the community over the years, the law and order situation in Joo Chiat has improved.
"We will continue to work closely with other agencies to act swiftly against errant outlet operators and any other persons who are found to have committed unlawful activities there."
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