32 arrested for suspected illegal employment offences in S’pore

SINGAPORE - The authorities have arrested 32 people suspected of being involved in illegal employment-related offences, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said on Sept 27.

Among those arrested on Sept 23 is a 33-year-old man suspected to be part of a syndicate that operated 28 shell public entertainment outlets, which allegedly hired work permit holders as performers when the companies were not in operation.

The remaining 16 men and 15 women were arrested for alleged involvement in making false declarations in work pass applications when the companies did not require their employment, the ministry added.

The suspects were arrested during islandwide enforcement operations conducted by MOM and the police at 27 locations. Investigations into the suspects are ongoing.

The ministry also said on Sept 27 that it will review the Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme, which is intended for licensed public entertainment outlets to hire performers on a short-term basis. This comes amid a growing trend of abuse of the scheme, it added.

Employers can hire only foreign workers with valid work passes. Both employers and applicants are required to make accurate, complete and truthful declarations to the Controller of Work Passes.

Foreigners who work without a valid work pass may be fined up to $20,000, jailed for up to two years, or both. If convicted, they may also be barred from working in Singapore.

Similarly, those convicted of making false declarations in work pass applications may get a fine of up to $20,000, a jail term of up to two years, or both.

Additionally, errant employers will have their work pass privileges suspended, and the work pass applicants may also be prosecuted and barred from working in Singapore.

Members of the public who are aware of illegal employment activities can report the matter to the ministry by calling 6438-5122 or e-mailing

mom_fmmd@mom.gov.sg

. All information provided will be kept confidential.