HARBOURING OF ILLEGAL WORKERS

Assoc. Prof. Chin Tet Yung asked the Minister for Home Affairs how many persons suspected of harbouring illegal workers have been (i) arrested and charged; (ii) prosecuted or are awaiting prosecution; and (iii) acquitted or convicted, since the recent campaign to warn flat owners of the need to check on the credentials of foreign persons who approach them for accommodation.

Mr Wong Kan Seng: Since the increased publicity in April/May last year to advise homeowners on the need to check the status of their tenants, there was an increase in the number of persons who were arrested for harbouring immigration offenders.

For the period January to March 2000, on average, about 41 persons per month were arrested for harbouring immigration offenders. From April to December 2000, this number increased to about 52 (about 27% increase).

The monthly average number of immigration offenders arrested increased from about 1210 to 1430, for the same corresponding periods (about 18% increase).

Given the enhanced publicity, coupled with increased enforcement efforts by Police and SIR, the increase in the numbers of immigration offenders and harbourers arrested is not surprising. Notably, the public has also contributed to the enforcement efforts. More have come forward with information relating to suspected cases of harbouring immigration offenders.

The authorities have been meticulous in examining the circumstances and facts of each case before deciding to charge the harbourer or employer in court. Last year, about 42% of those arrested for harbouring immigration offenders were not charged in court. For those who were charged, more than 80% of them were convicted.