SINGAPORE - Thirty-six people were arrested in a three-day operation by the Central Police Division for a range of crimes including gambling and the offering of sexual services.

The operation, which ran from Wednesday (March 7) to Friday, took place in Little India, Jalan Besar, Chinatown and Tiong Bahru, the police said in a statement on Saturday.

Eighteen women were arrested for providing sexual services in hotels and rented apartments.

They were believed to be staying in Singapore on employment passes or short term visit passes.

The other nine women and nine men were arested for gambling and drug-related offences.

Cash amounting to $1,438 was seized as case exhibits.

Investigations are ongoing.

The police said they will continue to clamp down on vice activities, and those found engaging in illicit activities will be dealt with sternly in accordance with the law.