The Police are investigating 19 persons, aged between 22 and 59, for alleged non-compliance with safe distancing measures under the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020.
On 20 September 2021, the Police received information of a gathering in a mixed-use commercial and residential building located along Balestier Road. When officers arrived, they found 19 persons allegedly consuming alcohol, playing games such as darts and table soccer, and socializing within the unit. Liquor, a karaoke system, a pool table, a dart board, and other paraphernalia used for entertainment were found inside the unit. Public entertainment and liquor were believed to be provided at the unit without a valid licence.
A 25-year-old man, who is one of the 19 persons found in the unit, is believed to be the unit’s operator and he will be investigated for offences under the Public Entertainments Act and Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act 2015. The man, together with the remaining 18 persons, will also be investigated for non-compliance with safe distancing measures under the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020.
The offences of providing public entertainment and supplying liquor without a valid licence each carry a fine of up to $20,000. For non-compliance with safe distancing measures under the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020, offenders may be jailed for up to six months, fined up to S$10,000, or both.
Members of the public are advised to take the prevailing safe distancing measures seriously. The Police take a stern view of irresponsible behaviours relating to the flouting of safe distancing measures and offenders will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
Source: Singapore Police Force