MURDER AND ROBBERY (Figures involving foreigners)

Mr Yeo Choo Kok asked the Minister for Home Affairs (a) what was the number of murders and firearm robberies committed from January 1986 up to the latest available date and how many of them were committed by foreigners; and (b) what measures are being taken to ensure that criminals from foreign countries will not enter Singapore.

The Minister of State for Home Affairs (Dr Lee Boon Yang) (for the Minister for Home Affairs): Mr Speaker, Sir, I am answering on behalf of my Minister.

Sir, the number of murders committed during the period January 1986 to 4th March 1987 was 73. 40 cases were solved to date, and of these, 12 cases were committed by foreigners.

The number of firearm robberies reported during the period January 1986 to 3rd March 1987 was 19. Of these, 4 cases have been solved and only 1 case was committed by foreigners.

The various enforcement agencies like the Police and the Central Narcotics Bureau work very closely with each other and the Immigration Department to identify and prevent foreign criminals from entering Singapore. Identities of notorious criminals are established through investigations or through the exchange of information with enforcement agencies of other countries. Such criminals are barred from entering Singapore. In addition, foreigners convicted of serious criminal offences in Singapore are repatriated and prohibited from re-entry after their release from prison. Our tough laws and effective Police enforcement also act as deterrents.

Mr Yeo Choo Kok (Delta): Sir, how many of these foreign criminals mentioned by the Minister of State are also work permit holders?

Dr Lee Boon Yang: Mr Speaker, Sir, out of the 19 foreigners who were involved in murder cases in 1986, 9 of them were on work permits.