SINGAPORE – The police are investigating 102 people for their suspected involvement in vice activities following a two-week-long islandwide operation.

In a statement on Feb 2, the police said 84 women and 15 men, aged between 18 and 49, were arrested between Jan 4 and 18.

Another three people – a man and two women, aged between 56 and 84 – are assisting in investigations.

The operation saw officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the seven police land divisions raid 55 locations around Singapore, including massage parlours, beauty salons, hotels and residential units.

They seized mobile phones, vice-related items, cash worth more than $27,000, and one vehicle.

Fifteen out of the 102 people rounded up are being investigated for abetting vice, the police said.

In January, two of the suspects were charged in court.

The first was a 44-year-old man who was charged with offences under the Women’s Charter on Jan 9.

The second was a 23-year-old man who was charged on Jan 10 over allegedly lying to his landlord and using his premises as an unlicensed massage establishment.

Vice syndicates have grown “increasingly sophisticated”, making use of technology to extend their reach and operate on a larger scale, said Assistant Commissioner of Police Yeo Yee Chuan, deputy director of the CID.

Their activities are directed remotely, often from overseas, he added.

Those found guilty of vice-related offences under the Women’s Charter can be jailed for up to several years, fined up to $100,000, or both. Repeat offenders will see similar jail terms, with a maximum fine of up to $150,000.

As for those convicted of cheating when it comes to the renting of premises, they can be jailed for up to 10 years, fined, or both. The Housing Board could also take action against them, including seizing the flat.