12 foreign nationals arrested in drug raid at Woodlands migrant worker dormitory

In a first, the media was allowed to accompany officers during a dormitory enforcement operation. Although led by CNB, the operation also involved the Singapore Police Force, Health Sciences Authority, Ministry of Manpower and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority as part of efforts to clamp down on illegal activities, including drug offences and other crimes.

Eight reporters followed scores of CNB officers – some in plain clothes, others in vests – as they searched rooms where migrant workers resided. 

Past midnight, as heavy rain eased to a drizzle, the media were allowed into two rooms where suspects were arrested after the scenes were secured.

In the first room, located on the second floor of a block, five handcuffed men were being held on suspicion of drug-related offences. A few sat in a row on the floor with their belongings – mobile phones, wallets and identity cards – placed in sealed bags before them.