About 20 women suspected of illegal street solicitation have been seen along Orchard Road at night, drawing attention and concern from the public.
According to reports received by Shin Min Daily News, these women have been frequenting the walkway outside Forum The Shopping Mall over the past few months. They were spotted sitting on benches or steps near the busy road, seemingly waiting to approach male passersby.
When the reporter visited the area at night, about 10 women dressed in revealing clothing were seen along the pedestrian walkway. They appeared to be in their 20s to 40s and were spread out in small groups or sitting alone.
Once a man glanced in their direction, one or more women would get up and walk over to him. They were observed flirting and saying things like “Be my boyfriend tonight,” while getting physically close by touching or putting their arms around the men.
Some men were seen stopping to talk to these women, and deals were struck within five minutes before the pair walked off to nearby bus stops or taxi stands.
A reader who works nearby and declined to be named told the reporter that he noticed the women starting to appear about three months ago. He claimed that most of the women appear to be from Vietnam and are likely targeting this spot due to the high number of tourists.
“But many tourists come with their families. I feel this kind of public solicitation can affect Singapore’s image,” he said.
He added that the numbers peak around 11 pm, and some women remain there as late as 3 or 4 in the morning.
“At the worst, there are about 20 to 30 of them. It’s quite serious.”
