On 23 June 2025, a major enforcement operation by the Singapore Police Force led to the arrest of a 32-year-old man and a 28-year-old woman for their suspected involvement in the online sale of illegal streaming devices. Officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) carried out coordinated raids at multiple locations, including Jalan Damai, Jalan Tenaga, Kaki Bukit Avenue 4, and Kaki Bukit Avenue 6.
During the raids, authorities seized over 100 units of illegal streaming devices, commonly used to access copyrighted content from unauthorised online sources. These devices are designed to bypass legal paywalls and restrictions, allowing users to stream pirated television shows, movies, live sports, and other digital media. The total estimated street value of the seized devices exceeds S$32,000.
The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies in Singapore to clamp down on copyright infringement and the illegal distribution of digital content. The Police confirmed that investigations into the case are ongoing.
Under Singapore’s Copyright Act 2021, it is an offence to deal in, import, distribute, or offer devices or services that enable unauthorised access to protected works. Convicted individuals can face a fine of up to S$100,000, an imprisonment term of up to five years, or both.
The Police issued a stern reminder that they take a serious view of intellectual property rights violations. The unlawful distribution or sale of such streaming devices undermines copyright holders, damages legitimate businesses, and deceives consumers. Authorities reiterated that they will not hesitate to take firm action against perpetrators who profit from piracy-related activities.
In the course of the same enforcement operation, the 32-year-old male suspect was also allegedly found in possession of several e-vaporisers and related components, which are prohibited under Singapore’s tobacco laws. This aspect of the case is being investigated separately by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) under Sections 15(3)(a) and 16(3)(a) of the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act 1993. Offenders may face substantial penalties for dealing in, selling, or possessing e-vaporisers.
E-vaporisers, including vapes and their components, remain banned in Singapore. The ban encompasses sale, distribution, import, and use. This policy is part of broader public health efforts to deter the use of harmful tobacco-related products.
The Police encouraged the public to refrain from purchasing or using illegal streaming devices or tobacco-related contraband and reminded retailers that strict enforcement will continue. Intellectual property infringement and contraband possession both carry significant legal consequences, and authorities remain committed to protecting the interests of lawful content providers, public health, and consumer safety.
Members of the public who have information related to the sale or distribution of such illegal devices are encouraged to report these activities to the authorities promptly.
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