Person with diplomatic immunity from S'pore accused of child cruelty or neglect: British govt

A person with diplomatic immunity from Singapore was one of nine suspects who were reported to the United Kingdom's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FDCO) for "serious and significant offences" in 2023.

All nine suspects were entitled to diplomatic or international organisation-related immunity in the UK.

Their alleged offences were brought to the attention of the FCDO, which is the UK's foreign ministry, by law enforcement agencies.

In a written statement to parliament on Nov. 14, junior foreign minister Catherine West defined "serious offences" as "those which could, in certain circumstances, carry a penalty of 12 months’ imprisonment or more".

She also listed several "significant offences" which included driving without insurance and certain types of assault.

The individual from Singapore was reported for alleged cruelty to or neglect of a child.

It was unstated if the person was a diplomatic official or a dependent.

In the UK, child cruelty or neglect may cover instances of physical abuse, not being allowed to attend school, being confined to the home, or being made to work.

Elsewhere, an individual from Iraq was reported for possession or distribution of indecent image.

Three individuals from Ghana, Libya, and Mongolia were reported for assault, while one person from Portugal was reported for indecent exposure.

West said the Foreign Office expects those entitled to immunity to obey UK's laws, and does not tolerate foreign diplomats or their dependants breaking the law:

"When the police or other law enforcement agencies bring instances of alleged criminal conduct to our attention, we ask the relevant foreign government or international organisation to waive immunity, where appropriate, to facilitate further investigation.

For the most serious offences, and when a relevant waiver has not been granted, we request the immediate withdrawal of the diplomat or dependant."

Mothership has contacted Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs for comment on the matter.

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