Premature to assume former SCDF, CNB chiefs liable for
criminal proceedings: CPIB
SINGAPORE: Singapore's anti-corruption agency has
stressed that as investigations are still on-going, it is premature
to assume that former commissioner of the Singapore Civil Defence
Force Peter Lim Sin Pang and former director of the Central
Narcotics Bureau Ng Boon Gay, would be ultimately liable for any
criminal proceedings.
In a statement to Channel NewsAsia late Wednesday,
the Corrupt Practices Investigations Bureau (CPIB) explained that
"prosecutorial discretion when any criminal wrongdoings are
revealed lies with the Attorney-General".
In the case of public servants, especially where
there are no criminal wrongdoings but serious misconduct, the
matter may also be referred to the Ministry or agency concerned for
appropriate disciplinary action to be taken.
On December 19 last year, CPIB arrested then director of the
Central Narcotics Bureau, Ng Boon Gay.
On January 4 this year, it also arrested then commissioner of the
Civil Defence Force, Peter Lim Sin Pang.
They were arrested under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Both men are presently out on bail and are assisting the Bureau in
separate investigations.
In the statement, CPIB once again emphasised that it takes a
serious view on corruption in Singapore.
All complaints and allegations of corruption are carefully
evaluated.
Investigations into allegations of corruption will be carried out
where an offence under the Prevention of Corruption Act is
disclosed and pursuable.
CPIB said where there are indications that a person may have
information related to an offence under the Prevention of
Corruption Act, he may be interviewed and a statement recorded from
him.
In the case of a person who may have committed an offence under the
Prevention of Corruption Act, he may be arrested and brought back
to CPIB for further investigations.
He can be detained for up to 48 hours and a search may be made of
the person or premises associated with him.
Thereafter, the person may be released unconditionally or placed on
bail.
Upon completion of its investigations, the CPIB will refer the
investigation papers to the Attorney-General's Chambers with the
necessary recommendations.
- CNA/cc
