THE Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) caught 54 people - including six Singaporeans suspected of harbouring or employing immigration offenders - in an 11-hour islandwide operation that ended in the wee hours of Thursday.
ICA said in a media statement yesterday that most of those nabbed came from countries such as Bangladesh, China, India, Nepal and Sri Lanka.
The majority admitted that they had come here to seek employment and had no fixed employer.
They had been working as general workers, cleaners, odd-job labourers, painters and food-stall helpers.
Some women admitted to engaging in vice activities, the statement added.
The oldest among the six Singaporeans caught was a 75-year-old who had allegedly allowed an illegal immigrant to live in his home in Teck Whye.
The 54 suspects, aged between 19 and 75, are being investigated by ICA and the police.
Under thr Immigration Act, the penalties for overstaying more than 90 days and illegal entry are a jail term of up to six months, plus a minimum of three strokes of the cane for male offenders below 50 years old.
In lieu of caning, female offenders face a fine not exceeding $6,000.
Homeowners found guilty of harbouring immigration offenders may be jailed between six months and two years, and fined up to $6,000.
The ICA advised homeowners to check the status of prospective foreign tenants via their original immigration or work passes.
Homeowners should also cross-check particulars against those on the passports, and verify the validity of the passes with the issuing authority.
(Taken from The Straits Times, Saturday, May 21 2011, Page B5)
only 54? there's more all over the island. so nabb 54 happy can repot in news? the citizens patrol do it better we can nab 540 i tell you.