September 27, 2024, 01:47 PM
32 individuals were arrested for their suspected involvement in illegal employment after an island-wide enforcement operation.
Officers from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and the Singapore Police Force (SPF) conducted the operation at 27 locations on Sep. 23.
Among those arrested is a 33-year-old male suspected to be the mastermind of a syndicate that operated 28 shell public entertainment outlets.
These shell outlets had allegedly hired work permit holders as performing artistes when the companies were non-operational.
16 men and 15 women were also arrested for their alleged involvement in making false declarations in work pass applications when the companies did not require their employment.
Investigations against all arrested individuals are ongoing.
MOM officers searching the 33-year-old male suspect’s home. Photo courtesy of MOM.
MOM officers arrested a 33-year-old male suspected to be the mastermind of a syndicate which operated 28 shell public entertainment outlets that hired work permit holders as performing artistes. Photo courtesy of MOM.
MOM officers taking statements from the individuals arrested for employment-related offences. Photo courtesy of MOM.
Work Permit scheme will be reviewed
In light of a "growing trend of abuse", MOM said it will be reviewing the Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme.
The scheme is intended for licensed public entertainment outlets to hire performing artistes on a short-term basis.
MOM also reminded the public that under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (EFMA), all employers and work pass applicants must make accurate, complete and truthful declarations to the Controller of Work Passes.
"Employers can only hire foreign employees with valid work passes," said MOM.
Foreigners who undertake employment without a valid work pass may be liable to a fine of up to S$20,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
Those convicted may be barred from working in Singapore.
Individuals convicted of making false declarations in work pass applications may be liable to a fine not exceeding S$20,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or to both.
Errant employers will also have their work pass privileges suspended, and the work pass applicant may also be prosecuted and barred from working in Singapore.
MOM said members of the public who are aware of illegal employment activities, or who know of persons or employers who may have contravened the EFMA, should report the matter to MOM at 6438 5122 or [email protected], and added that information provided will be kept strictly confidential.
Top image via Ministry of Manpower.
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