Zhang Kai, a 47-year-old Chinese national, went on trial in Singapore on May 4, 2026, for aiding sex work by arranging hotel rooms and setting up inflatable beds for two women in exchange for S$1,050 (US$824) each [1].
The offences allegedly took place between late February and early March 2025. Zhang faces two charges under the Women's Charter for knowingly receiving gratification as a reward for services that aided sex work. He also faces a third charge of obstructing justice by deleting the WeChat app on his phone, which Deputy Public Prosecutor Xu Sijia said Zhang did because he had not heard from his co-accused, Malaysian Goh Boon Hong [1].
The prosecution is expected to call at least 20 witnesses and present evidence including police reports, photos, WeChat messages, and items seized from hotel rooms. Authorities conducted a "test call" to a suspected vice syndicate called "Fanza SG," uncovering advertisements for "soapland services," which involve massages followed by sexual services. Assistant Superintendent of Police Kelvin Tan explained that such services include massages using soap before sexual acts [1].
Zhang’s co-accused, Goh Boon Hong, was sentenced in July 2025 to one year’s jail time and a fine related to the same syndicate [1].
The trial continues as prosecutors present their case against Zhang with plans to introduce substantial witness testimony and documentary evidence.
