189 suspects, including 177 foreigners, arrested during Johor anti-vice raids.
Johor police have arrested 189 individuals, including 177 foreigners, in a three-day anti-vice operation targeting prostitution, guest relation officer (GRO) activities, and illegal gambling. The operation, conducted across Johor Bahru and Iskandar Puteri, resulted in multiple seizures and highlighted concerns about vice activities in entertainment centres.
The Op Noda Khas operation focused on tackling vice-related activities, a recurring issue in Johor’s entertainment sector. Police targeted entertainment outlets suspected of hosting illegal activities, including gambling and GRO operations, leading to a significant number of arrests.
The operation, which involved 68 police personnel, arrested 189 individuals aged between 18 and 63. Among them were 161 foreign women, highlighting the prevalence of foreign nationals in GRO and related activities.
Initial urine screenings revealed that 28 suspects, including 16 local men and 12 foreign women, tested positive for drugs. This adds a new dimension to the operation, focusing on substance abuse in these vice-related environments.
A separate raid uncovered illegal gambling activities, leading to the arrest of 14 individuals. Police seized RM83,100 in cash along with gambling equipment, emphasizing the scale of these operations.
The arrested locals face remand under the Criminal Procedure Code, while foreign nationals were detained for immigration violations. Investigations span multiple legal frameworks, including the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953 and the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
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Since January, Johor police have conducted 388 raids across entertainment centres, arresting 1,910 individuals for various offences. This operation underscores the ongoing battle against vice-related activities in the state.
The crackdown sends a strong message about Johor’s commitment to maintaining safety and law enforcement. Enhanced vigilance in entertainment centres ensures a safer environment for tourists while deterring illegal activities.
Johor police arrested 189 individuals, including 177 foreigners, in a major anti-vice operation targeting prostitution, illegal gambling, and drug use. The raids highlight the region’s ongoing commitment to addressing vice-related activities.
Sources: Free Malaysia Today, The Star (2024)
Keywords: Johor Police, Anti-Vice Raids, Illegal Gambling
