BUKIT MERTAJAM – Penang police crippled a prostitution syndicate that had been using social media to lure customers and bring them to budget hotels.
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) D7 team revealed that the syndicate had been operating in all three districts in Seberang Prai, despite Covid-19 lockdown orders.
The team arrested 11 women, comprising three locals and eight foreigners aged between 25 and 47, during the operation. The foreigners include Indonesians, Vietnamese and Thai nationals.
Penang CID chief Rahimi Raais said the team raided four budget hotels here and in Butterworth and Simpang Ampat at about 3pm yesterday.
“Investigation revealed that the syndicate charged customers between RM120 and RM200 for sex services,” he said, adding that the group conducted business via the WeChat app.
“We also seized cash, condoms, tissues, lubricants and mobile phones.”
Rahimi said the hotel operators will be compounded under Regulation 17(1) of the Emergency (Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases) (Amendment) Ordinance 2021.
The arrested individuals have been brought to the respective districts’ police headquarters, and are being investigated under Section 372 (B) of the Penal Code for alleged soliciting for purpose of prostitution, he added.
He said police will not compromise on any illegal activity, especially when carried out during the lockdowns to curb the spread of Covid-19. – The Vibes, August 20, 2021
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