25-7-2023 (KUALA LUMPUR) In a late-night raid, the police swooped down on a “unique” illegal karaoke joint in Kuala Lumpur, detaining a total of 497 individuals, including 106 local and foreign hostesses, 55 employees, and 336 patrons seeking entertainment.
The Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Lazim Lazim, stated in a press release that the operation was conducted by the Anti-Vice, Gaming, and Secret Societies Division under the national police’s Criminal Investigation Department at 1:10 am on Tuesday (July 25) at an entertainment venue in the Golden Triangle area of Kuala Lumpur.
The venue had 17 private rooms offering packages priced from RM3,800 to RM25,000, catering to the demands of both local and foreign hostesses.
“This karaoke establishment operated from 8:00 pm to 6:00 am daily without a valid operating license, and it misused the restaurant license issued by the Kuala Lumpur City Hall,” said Tan Sri Lazim.
“During the raid, the police arrested 84 foreign hostesses aged between 18 and 46, 55 individuals comprising managers, counter staff, and venue employees, 22 local female hostesses, and 336 patrons. The police also seized musical equipment and RM13,862 in cash at the scene.”
“All those arrested have been brought to the Kuala Lumpur Police Contingent Headquarters for further investigation.”
Tan Sri Lazim warned entertainment establishment operators to abide by the law, operate legitimately, and refrain from engaging in illegal activities such as hiring hostesses and dealing with drugs. He stated that strict action would be taken against offenders.
