A gang is legally called an “unlawful society”, so long as it contains more than 10 people and is not registered with the authorities under the Societies Act. Any society using triad rituals (or having custody or control of any books, accounts, writings, seals, banners or insignia of or relating to any triad society or branch of a triad society) will automatically be deemed an unlawful society.
Am I legally a member of a gang?
Membership to a gang is not dependent on entry, membership fees, pacts, or contracts. The act of even spending time together with established gang members may put you at risk of prosecution.
The following are offences under the Societies Act, and the penalties they carry:
Manages or assists in the management
o Imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years.
o Liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years or to both.
Knowingly allowing a meeting of an unlawful society, or of members of an unlawful societyto be held in apremises belonging to or occupied by him
o Liable to a fine not exceeding $5,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years or to both.
It is easy to imagine you are not a member of a gang, especially when you are not privy to much information, but small actions like being present with gang members at gatherings and settlements and fights may implicate you in a way you ere not prepared for. In these cases, it is best to ensure your relationship with the gang remains legally acceptable – and it is best to seek the legal advice of Singaporean criminal lawyers.