45 overstayers, 1 suspected harbourer nabbed in ICA operation

45 overstayers, 1 suspected harbourer nabbed in ICA operation

SINGAPORE - A total of 45 immigration offenders (IOs) were nabbed in a three-day enforcement operation for overstaying in Singapore, said the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) in a statement on Friay.

Those arrested comprised 28 males and 17 females, aged between 20 and 50 years, from Bangladesh, China and Nepal.

A 31-year-old Bangladesh national, who had sublet his room to other IOs, was also arrested for suspected harbouring offences.

Investigations on those arrested are ongoing.

The ICA said that it takes a serious view of attempts to overstay, enter or depart Singapore illegally.

Overstaying or illegal entry carries a jail term of up to six months and at least three strokes of the cane, while the penalties for illegal departure is a fine of up to $,2000, a jail term of up to six months, or both.

The authority also reminded homeowners to exercise due diligence in checking the immigration or work passes and passports of prospective foreign tenants, and verifying the validity of the foreigners' pass with the issuing authority.

Homeowners found guilty of harbouring overstayers may be jailed between six months and two years and fined up to $6,000.

seanyap@sph.com.sg

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