Cops nab 15 GROs in fun outlet raids

KUCHING: Police arrested 15 women allegedly involved in vice-related activities following a series of raids on five entertainment centres around the city last Tuesday (July 2).

The raids codenamed ‘Op Noda’ and ‘Op Pusat Hiburan’ were conducted around 10.55  pm by a special team from the district police headquarters (IPD).

Kuching police chief ACP Ahsmon Bajah said that the suspects, comprising six locals and nine foreigners, were taken into custody on suspicion of offering services as guest relations officers (GROs).

Ppolice also arrested 21 local men, who are employees and patrons at the entertainment centres.

The foreigners are being remanded for 14 days under Section 51(5)(b) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 for violating the conditions of passports, permits and border passes while, the locals are being remanded for four days.

Ahsmon added that the case is being investigated under Section 372 of the Penal Code for exploiting people for purposes of prostitution, which carries up to 15 years in prison, a fine and lashes of the cane.

In addition, the case is also being investigated under Regulation 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963 for carrying out activities that are contrary to the conditions in the pass or permit, which carries up to six months in prison, or up to RM1,000 fine, or both.