Forum: Report on scam gang may mislead readers by singling out ACS (I)
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We refer to the article “ Singapore scam gang operating in Cambodia allegedly led by two brothers
We note that the report specifically mentioned that one of the individuals is a former student of ACS (I), while no other educational institutions were named in relation to the other individuals listed.
While we recognise the importance of factual reporting, the selective inclusion of the school’s name, particularly through the caption “Former ACS (I) student” placed alongside others labelled “Legal trouble” and “Criminal history” in the digital version, creates an unnecessary and unfair association between the school and indicators of criminal conduct.
Although each caption may be factually accurate in isolation, the juxtaposition suggests that being a former student of ACS (I) is a noteworthy trait of comparable significance to having a criminal record.
This framing deliberately misleads readers to assume a correlation or, worse, that there is prejudiced reporting by singling out the school. This has caused understandable concern among our alumni and the broader school community.
We respectfully request that you review this editorial choice and consider either removing the school’s name or applying a consistent approach across all individuals mentioned, and in future mentions.
This would help ensure balanced reporting and avoid any misleading implications by a publication that is as esteemed as our national broadsheet, which is funded by taxpayers, such as our members.
Wong Heng Yu (Dr)
President
Anglo-Chinese School Old Boys’ Association (ACSOBA)
Editor’s note:
Our report published on Oct 30 represents what we currently know about the Singapore-linked scam gang operating in Cambodia. It was not intended to be, nor could it be, exhaustive.
There remain many individuals about whom we still have limited information, but continue to investigate. We expect more details to emerge.
Still, given that 27 Singaporeans are wanted by the police for alleged involvement in a serious and egregious cross-border crime with victims in Singapore and the region, we saw it was necessary and useful for readers to be provided with as much verifiable information about these individuals as possible as it emerges and becomes publicly available.
We have previously published stories where the educational background of those featured, including when they are accused or convicted of serious crimes, has been mentioned.
As was our intent here, the aim was not to cast the school in a negative light, but to report the facts and include background which adds texture to the story.
