Exclusive ‘Underground’ Karaoke Centre Raided, 52 Individuals Detained

KUALA LUMPUR: The cunning tactic of converting a luxury condominium basement car park in Taman Leng Seng here into an exclusive karaoke centre complete with guest relations officers (GROs) was uncovered after it was raided by authorities early this morning.

The Op Gegar at approximately 1 am was conducted by the Kuala Lumpur Immigration Department (JIM) in collaboration with the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), based on information and intelligence.

The unlicensed premises, which were equipped with three thick iron doors as well as closed-circuit television (CCTV) at every entrance, however, failed to prevent the authorities from carrying out the raid.

In fact, the exclusive club only allowed regular customers entry and had more than 10 rooms.

Several customers found at the premises did not admit that the women inside were with them, and most claimed that the foreign GROs were provided by the premises.

Meanwhile, Kuala Lumpur Immigration Director, Hamsha Injau said, based on preliminary investigations, his team believes that the premises charges up to RM1,300 for a six-hour period covering the room, alcoholic beverages and hosts.

“Based on preliminary investigations, we believe these foreign women work voluntarily as GROs at this premises. We believe this premises has been operating for approximately two months,” he said after the operation here on Saturday.

According to him, a total of 52 individuals were detained involving four locals, including three men who acted as caretakers and managers of the premises, as well as a woman believed to be managing the GROs.

“The foreign nationals detained involve women suspected to be GROs, consisting of 33 Vietnamese, one Thai and the rest being male workers, namely 10 Bangladeshis, four Myanmar nationals and one Chinese national.

“Witness summons notices were also issued to 19 local visitors,” he said.

He said all those detained were taken to the Bukit Jalil Immigration Depot for documentation and further investigation.

Kosmo Online