Three Singaporean men have been charged for kayaking to Pulau Ubin, where they then camped and fished, despite Circuit Breaker measures.

CNA reported that the three men indicated their intention to plead guilty when they were given multiple charges in court on Monday (May 18).

Meeting for "social purposes"

According to charge sheets seen by Mothership, Rizani Sham Mohamed Hussin, Zulman B Mashonain — both 38-years-old — and Mohamed Hafiz Mat Nadar, 36, are alleged to have gathered at Pasir Ris Park on April 13 at about 7pm.

None of the individuals live together, and they are accused of having met for the "social purpose" of kayaking, fishing, and camping — a breach of Circuit Breaker measures in place since April 7.

According to CNA, they then kayaked to Pulau Ubin, and entered the Chek Jawa Wetlands Park Zone, which had been designated a "no entry" zone.

All watercrafts and people have been barred from entering the area since October 2007, and must seek prior approval from the National Parks Board (NParks) if they wish to do so.

Once inside Chek Jawa Wetlands, the men are alleged to have set up camp, which included shelter, hammocks, and campfires — all offences punishable under the Parks and Trees Regulations.

Rizani and Zulman both received additional charges for using fishing rods to catch fish in the park, according to court documents.

CNA reported that in total Rizani and Zulman were given eight charges, while Hafiz was given seven.

Jail for up to 6 months

Rizani spoke on behalf of the group in court on May 18, stating their intention to plead guilty to all their charges.

He also asked for leniency.

Rizani is quoted by CNA as saying that while the group were stopped by an NParks officer who told them that fishing was not allowed.

However, the officer did not give further advice when informed by the three men that they intended to do so at Pulau Ubin, said Rizani.

For leaving their homes without reasonable excuse and meeting other individuals for social purposes, the three men can be jailed for up to six months, fined up to S$10,000, or both.

For each offence under the Parks and Trees Regulations, they can be fined up to S$2,000.

Fishing at Chek Jawa Wetlands carries a fine of up to S$5,000.

Top image from Alexey Komarov via Flickr