Those arrested were from firms that allegedly made CPF contributions to 'phantom workers'

Ten individuals in Singapore were arrested on 31 March for suspected involvement in fraudulent work pass applications, according to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

MOM said those arrested include directors and employees of five construction firms that allegedly made Central Provident Fund (CPF) contributions to "phantom workers" – Singaporeans and permanent residents who were not actually employed by the companies.

These "phantom workers" were allegedly used to inflate the firms' quotas so they could submit work pass applications to MOM to hire more foreigners.

According to MOM, another 41 subjects are assisting in the investigation for suspected involvement in the illegal arrangements.

Another group of more than 40 people connected to the five companies involved is also having their CPF contributions investigated by the ministry.

In Singapore, an individual who makes false declarations in work pass applications can be fined up to $20,000 or receive jail time not exceeding two years, or both.

Their work pass privileges may also be suspended, and the work pass applicant may be barred from working in Singapore.

"Those who collude with companies by providing their particulars for fraudulent CPF contributions to meet the requirements for work pass applications may also be prosecuted," MOM said.

The arrests and investigations were made following an island‑wide enforcement operation by the...

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