Migrant Domestic Workers and Employers Arrested in Singapore MOM Operation

SINGAPORE – In a significant crackdown on illegal employment activities, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) arrested 27 individuals on July 30 in raids conducted across 17 locations. The arrests were made due to suspected involvement in illegal employment practices and falsification of work pass applications, MOM announced on August 7.

Illegal Employment and Work Pass Violations

Of those arrested, 13 were migrant domestic workers who allegedly worked as household cleaners for employers other than their official ones, without the necessary valid work passes. Additionally, these workers had violated work pass conditions by residing outside their designated employers' homes.

The remaining 14 suspects are believed to have facilitated these illegal activities by securing work passes for the migrant workers and then allowing them to seek other employment opportunities. This act constitutes making false declarations in work pass applications, a serious offense under Singaporean law.

Legal Consequences for Violations

In Singapore, strict employment laws mandate that all employers and work pass applications must contain accurate and truthful information. Foreign employees must hold valid work passes to be legally employed.

Penalties for Foreign Employees:

• A fine of up to $20,000.

• Imprisonment for up to two years.

• Potential barring from future employment in Singapore.

Penalties for Errant Employers:

• A fine of up to $20,000.

• Imprisonment for up to two years.

• Suspension of work pass privileges.

• The prosecuted work pass applicant may be prohibited from working in Singapore.

MOM's Enhanced Detection Measures

MOM has significantly strengthened its processes by incorporating data analytics and post-approval checks to identify suspicious work pass applications more effectively. Mr. Adrian Quek, divisional director of the foreign manpower management division, stated, “Offenders have been taken to task for deliberately undermining our work pass controls. We will continue to step up our enforcement efforts and will not hesitate to take stern action against such offenders to ensure compliance with our employment laws.”

Reporting Illegal Employment Activities

MOM encourages the public to report any suspected illegal employment activities. If you have information, please contact MOM at 6438-5122 or via email at mom_fmmd@mom.gov.sg. Public vigilance and cooperation are crucial in maintaining the integrity of Singapore's employment regulations.

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This recent bust by MOM highlights the ongoing efforts to enforce employment laws and the serious repercussions for those who attempt to circumvent them. As Singapore continues to uphold stringent standards, both employers and employees must adhere strictly to the legal requirements to avoid severe penalties.

Source: The Straits Times