Individuals arrested for suspected illegal employment
More than 30 people in Singapore were arrested last week as part of the government's island-wide crackdown on illegal employment.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said 32 people were apprehended on September 23 for their suspected involvement in illegal employment.
One of the arrested individuals is a 33-year-old male suspected to be part of a syndicate that operated 28 shell public entertainment outlets.
According to MOM, the outlets allegedly hired work permit holders as performing artistes despite these companies being non-operational.
Another 16 men and 15 women were also arrested for allegedly fabricating false declarations in work pass applications when the companies did not require their employment.
"Investigations against all arrested individuals are ongoing," MOM said in a statement.
It also announced a review of the Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme, which enables licensed public entertainment outlets to hire performing artistes on a short-term basis.
"In light of the growing trend of abuse, MOM will be reviewing the scheme," MOM said.
In Singapore, the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act mandates all employers and work pass applicants to make accurate, complete, and truthful declarations to the Controller of Work Passes.
Individuals convicted of making false declarations in work pass applications may be fined by up to $20,000, or imprisoned for up to two years, or both.
Errant employers will also have their work pass privileges suspended, with the work pass applicant prosecuted and banned from working in Singapore.
Foreigners who take on employment without a valid work pass may be liable to a fine of up to $20,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both. They may also be barred from working in Singapore.
