SINGAPORE: Authorities are investigating a shophouse
along Tanjong Katong Road, where they suspect is being used as an
illegal hostel for women.
Neighbours said some tenants have also been
harassing passers-by at night.
All was quiet when Channel NewsAsia knocked on the
door to one of the units, despite noise heard from inside the
apartment.
Within half an hour, three Filipino women emerged.
The women said they lived upstairs.
When asked why they were in Singapore, one said: "I want to
experience the ambience of the country and the culture. I want to
learn more culture of different countries also."
Channel NewsAsia understands the unit had previously been busted as
an illegal hostel.
The Urban Redevelopment Authority is now investigating if the
owners have flouted the rules again by secretly converting the unit
from its stated use as a private home.
Neighbours said the 40 or so tenants are mostly in their early 20s,
and often create a ruckus through the night.
They added they hope the police can step up patrols.
Police said they will act against any illegal activity.
- CNA/wk
