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SINGAPORE: A 27-year-old man was charged on Friday (May 8) with attempting to bribe a police officer, the Office of Corrupt Practices Investigations (CPIB) said in a press release.
Court documents showed that Chen Long, a Chinese citizen, offered a S $ 50 bribe to a Public Transportation Security Command officer at the Boon Lay MRT station around 6pm on Thursday.
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Officer Chan Hui Shi rejected his offer.
The CPIB said Chen offered the bribe as an “incentive to refrain from taking enforcement action against him” after it was discovered that he had violated Regulation 3A (1) (a) of COVID-19 Regulations 2020 (Temporary Measures ) (Control Order).
This regulation stipulates that all persons must wear a mask over their nose and mouth at all times when they are not in their place of residence.
READ: Man accused of wearing a mask improperly, leaving the house without reason and attacking the police
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As part of the improved measures introduced to stop the spread of COVID-19, it is now It is mandatory to wear a mask in public unless you are exempt by law.
First-time offenders face a S $ 300 fine, while repeat offenders face a S $ 1,000 fine.
“Those caught trying to bribe to get out of COVID-19 related crimes will find themselves in more serious trouble with the law,” said the CPIB.
Chen will return to court for a pre-trial conference on May 15.
READ: COVID-19: What the law says about having to wear a mask when you are away from home
If convicted of corruption, you face a fine of up to S $ 100,000 and up to five years in prison, or both.
“Singapore takes a zero tolerance approach to corruption. It is a serious crime to offer bribes to avoid enforcement actions, ”said the CPIB.
The office added that it will take firm and prompt action against criminals, and will work with the Chambers of the Attorney General to press for dissuasive sentences against them.
CPIB said it will examine all allegations and reports of corruption, including anonymous ones. Those with relevant information can contact CPIB online or call 1800-376-0000.
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