Man caught for allegedly entering S'pore illegally via Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

SINGAPORE - The Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve had been closed for a period on Saturday morning due to police operations. 

According to local reports, a 45-year-old man had been arrested for allegedly trying to enter Singapore illegally through Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. 

The Police Coast Guard had reportedly detected suspicious activities in the waters off Sungei Buloh slightly after 5am. This resulted in a search, and the subsequent arrest of the man whose nationality is unknown. 

Due to this search, the National Parks Board (NParks) announced earlier today, on its social media platforms, that the reserve near Kranji will be closed until further notice. 

In a Facebook post, NParks said: "For public safety, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is closed today until further notice due to police operations. We are sorry for any inconvenience caused."

Two hours later at about 12.45pm, NParks updated to say the park was reopened. "Thank you for your patience. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is now open to visitors."

The man was apprehended for "immigration offences", Channel NewsAsia reported. Investigations are ongoing. 

maryanns@sph.com.sg