32 individuals were arrested for their suspected involvement in illegal employment following an island-wide enforcement operation conducted by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and the Singapore Police Force (SPF) on September 23. Among those apprehended is a 33-year-old man believed to be the mastermind behind a syndicate that operated 28 shell public entertainment outlets. These outlets allegedly hired work permit holders as performing artistes despite being non-operational. Additionally, 16 men and 15 women were arrested for allegedly making false declarations in work pass applications. Investigations are ongoing.
Background
The enforcement operation took place across 27 locations in Singapore, highlighting the authorities’ commitment to cracking down on illegal employment practices. The 33-year-old suspect is accused of orchestrating a scheme that exploited the Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme, which is intended for licensed public entertainment outlets to hire performing artistes on a short-term basis. This operation underscores the growing trend of abuse within the system, prompting MOM to take further action.
Work permit scheme will be reviewed
In response to the increasing misuse of the Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme, MOM announced plans to review the programme. The ministry emphasised the importance of accurate, complete, and truthful declarations under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (EFMA). “Employers can only hire foreign employees with valid work passes,” MOM stated. Foreigners working without a valid work pass face fines up to S$20,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both. Those convicted may also be barred from working in Singapore.
Legal consequences and public advisory
Individuals found guilty of making false declarations in work pass applications may face similar penalties, including fines up to S$20,000 and imprisonment for up to two years. Errant employers will have their work pass privileges suspended, and the work pass applicants may also face prosecution and be barred from working in Singapore. MOM urged the public to report any illegal employment activities or violations of the EFMA, assuring that all information provided will be kept strictly confidential.
Past enforcement actions
This recent operation is part of a broader effort by MOM to combat illegal employment. In May 2023, a two-day island-wide enforcement operation resulted in the arrest of 27 individuals for similar offences, including making false declarations in work pass applications and inflating a firm’s migrant worker quota. In July 2023, another raid across 17 addresses led to the arrest of 27 people, including 13 migrant domestic workers, for their suspected involvement in illegal employment and falsification of work pass applications.
Future implications
The ongoing investigations and the review of the Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme signal a tightening of regulations to prevent further abuse. MOM’s proactive stance aims to safeguard the integrity of Singapore’s employment framework and ensure that all foreign workers are employed under lawful and fair conditions. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help maintain a fair and transparent employment system.
