A criminal syndicate rented a luxurious bungalow in Bukit Timah to operate a gambling den.
Police arrested 12 individuals speaking with Northern Chinese accents during a targeted operation that exposed a sophisticated illegal gambling setup.
36 Arrests Made in Island-Wide Operation
The Singapore Police Force arrested 36 individuals during an island-wide crime sweep, dismantling several illegal gambling dens in various locations.
At a high-end bungalow on Jalan Kampong Chantek, police detained 12 men and women aged between 35 and 52 years, all speaking with Northern Chinese accents.
This raid was part of a joint operation to combat illegal and criminal activities conducted from 5 March to 8 March 2025.
The four-day crackdown focused on disrupting organized crime syndicates that have been establishing gambling operations in residential properties.
A reporter from Lianhe Zaobao followed the police during the late-night raid on Thursday (6 March 2025) and witnessed the entire operation firsthand.
The criminal group had rented the bungalow and strategically set up gambling tables in the second-floor living room, away from street view.
A professional team ran the small gambling den, which specialized in “Tong Jiu,” a popular mahjong game in China.
This game uses mahjong tiles to compare values, with the syndicate collecting substantial commissions from each game played.
Police sources indicated that such operations typically target high-end residential areas due to reduced foot traffic and fewer neighbors who might report suspicious activities.
High Stakes Gambling in Expensive Rental Property
The monthly rent for luxury bungalows in this area ranges from $50,000 to $70,000, making it a significant investment for the criminal organization.
The minimum bet for a single game was as high as $10,000, indicating the exclusive nature of this gambling operation that catered to high-rollers only.
When police stormed the gambling den, the 12 individuals were sitting around the gambling table and surrendered without resistance.
Facing police and media cameras, some quickly turned away to hide their faces, while others remained silent with lowered heads.
Gaming chips, cash, and gambling paraphernalia were found scattered across the tables. All suspects were later taken to a rest area for individual questioning by investigating officers.
The bungalow had multiple CCTV cameras installed outside, creating a comprehensive surveillance system.
The criminals monitored screens inside the house to track movements around the property, preparing for potential police raids.
Around 2:00 AM, an ambulance was called for one female suspect who appeared unwell during the questioning process. She was taken to the hospital for treatment while remaining under police custody.
Police investigations are ongoing, with all arrested individuals facing potential charges related to illegal gambling activities under Singapore law.
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