Transport Minister S Iswaran is currently assisting the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) with an investigation into a case uncovered by the agency.

The director of CPIB briefed PM Lee on Jul. 5 about the case and sought his concurrence to open a formal investigation that involves interviewing Transport Minister S Iswaran, among others, according to a statement from Prime Minister's Office.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has given the director of CPIB his concurrence to launch a formal investigation.

PM Lee gave the concurrence the next day and the formal investigation will start on Jul. 11.

CPIB acknowledged the public interest in the case because a minister is being interviewed and said that it will investigate thoroughly with "strong resolve to establish the facts and the truth".

The agency also said that it is unable to provide further details about the case.

In the meantime, Iswaran was asked by the Prime Minister to take a leave of absence until these investigations are completed.

In his absence, Senior Minister of State Chee Hong Tat will be Acting Minister for Transport.

Top image from S Iswaran/Facebook and by siang hang lim/Google Maps