20 rounded up in 17—hour crime blitz

SINGAPORE: Twenty people were arrested for their involvement in various criminal activities across western Singapore in a multi—agency operation led by Jurong Police Division and supported by officers from the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB), Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), Immigration and Checkpoint Authority (ICA), Special Operations Command (SOC) and Traffic Police (TP).

A dragnet operation lasting 17 hours was launched from Friday to the early hours of Saturday, targeting drug offences, secret societies, vice and sleaze and drink driving.

More than 174 personnel from the SPF and other Home Team law enforcement agencies were mustered for the operation.

Over the course of the operation, 572 persons were checked at locations such as public housing estates in Bukit Panjang, Bukit Batok, Jurong West, Boon Lay, Marsiling and Woodlands, as well as the industrial and commercial areas in the vicinity of Mandai, Soon Lee, Taman Jurong and Lim Chu Kang.

Twenty persons were arrested for suspected involvement in drug activities, possession of obscene materials, possession of contraband cigarettes and drink driving.

A premise owner was taken to task for breach of public entertainment licensing conditions.

SCDF also detected fire safety violations and will be following up on the necessary actions.

Investigations against the subjects are still on—going.

Commander of Jurong Police Division, Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Police (DAC) Wilson Lim said the police will be stepping up efforts to ensure a safe and secure environment for all to enjoy the festive holidays.

— CNA/xq