The recent series of raids in Geylang is part of an ongoing effort to create a secure environment by targeting and addressing illegal activities at their root. It’s also a show of force following one of the largest money laundering scandals to ever hit Singapore.
That ordeal has already determined that at least $2.8 billion had been laundered by only a small handful of people. As the investigation advances and authorities continue to seize houses, yachts, vehicles, and more, the number is likely going to grow.
Illegal Gambling Ring Stifled
In the aftermath of the raids, 24 men and one woman are currently under investigation for offenses related to illegal gambling, falling under the purview of the Gambling Control Act. They make up the majority of the people police arrested during the raids.
Additionally, authorities seized more than SGD4,000 (US$2,925) in cash, along with gambling paraphernalia, during the operations. The group was reportedly operating a small-time gambling outfit in an industrial building when they were caught.
The legal consequences for those found guilty of illegal gambling are significant. Under the Gambling Control Act, individuals participating in gambling activities in an unlawful setting may face fines of up to SGD10,000 (US$7,314), imprisonment for up to six months, or a combination of both penalties.
Individuals involved in the conduct of unlawful betting, gaming, or lottery operations may be subject to fines of up to SGD200,000 (US$146,280) and imprisonment for up to five years.
Singapore regularly cracks down on illegal gambling. Every few months, there are major operations that dismantle active gambling groups.
Police across the country have arrested at least 300 people already this year. In one operation, the first of the year, the authorities arrested 152 suspects and launched investigations into 466 others for illegal gambling and other offenses.
