A joint operation between Police Coast Guard (PCG) and Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) resulted in the arrest of 4 illegal immigrants and seizure of a speedboat suspected to be used for smuggling of illegal immigrants and duty unpaid cigarettes.
On 30 April 2016 at 11.53pm, PCG detected a speedboat inside Singapore waters heading towards the shoreline of Tanah Merah. PCG immediately alerted the various land and sea resources, and subsequently, intercepted the speedboat successfully. During the operation, 4 illegal immigrants aged between 23 and 39 were arrested and 532 cartons of duty unpaid cigarettes were seized.
The four illegal immigrants will be charged in the Court on 2 May 2016 with the offence of entering Singapore unlawfully provided for under the Immigration Act (Chapter 133).
Commander of the Police Coast Guard, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police Hsu Sin Yun said, " The success of this joint operation between SPF and ICA reaffirm our strong resolve and determination in cracking down on any illegal activities in Singapore waters. We take a very serious view on illegal smuggling activities and will act swiftly in bringing the offenders to justice”.
Photo of the 532 cartons of duty unpaid cigarettes
Photo of the speedboat
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
01 May 2016 @ 3:20 PM