2 unlawful societies in S'pore held event attended by 25 foreigners allegedly associated with overseas triads

The Singapore police have taken action against 24 men and six women for their involvement in two unlawful societies, according to a Mar. 19, 2026, police news release.

This comes after the police, following information received, commenced investigations into two unlawful societies that had organised a religious event in September 2024.

The event was attended by 25 foreigners who were believed to be associated with overseas triads.

Unlawful societies

According to the release, investigations found that both societies were operating in Singapore without being registered under the Societies Act 1966 and were therefore unlawful societies.

A total of 12 men, aged between 43 and 56, had earlier been warned by the police between Mar. 13 and Mar. 17, 2026, for being members of an unlawful society under Section 14(3) of the Societies Act 1966, the release noted.

In addition, another 12 men, aged between 21 and 60, and six women, aged between 30 and 53, were issued advisories for their involvement in an unlawful society.

Penalties

Those intending to form or operate a society in Singapore are advised to ensure that the society is in full compliance with Singapore's legal and regulatory requirements, the release noted.

Anyone convicted of being a member of an unlawful society under Section 14(3) of the Societies Act 1966 may face a fine of up to S$10,000, up to three years' jail, or both.

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