- Singapore lands Chinese national, Xu Shoupei, in jail for five weeks after failed bribe attempt.
- Jobless Xu offered S$76 in desperation to avoid possible legal issues affecting his future job prospects.
- Xu faced potential penalties up to five years jail and a fine of S$100,000 for each graft charge.
The Straits Times reports that a 31-year-old Chinese national, Xu Shoupei, attempted to bribe a Singaporean police officer to avoid repercussions that could impact his future job prospects.
Singapore’s Robust Anti-Bribery Laws
When it comes to bribery offences in Singapore, the law doesn’t play. It bites.
Our legislative framework is robust, aiming to thoroughly cut the roots of corruption.
Take a case from July 2021 as a striking example.
A Case Study of Xu Shoupei
Xu Shoupei was just a regular bloke hanging out at a park near Kembangan MRT station.
A simple identity card check turned his night topsy-turvy.
Without his identity card and fearing adverse effects on his job prospects, panic took over Xu. So he offered a bribe.
The Persisting Offer of S$76
According to the arrest records, Xu offered S$76 to the officer, Special Constable SC Ong Shu Hong.
When told to cease his actions, Xu didn’t stop. Even while in handcuffs, Xu continued to offer the cash.
Mr Xu’s persistence did him no favours. It merely solidified his arrest.
Legal Implications and Penalties
In Singapore, attempting bribery can brand you with serious charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Defendants potentially face up to five years jail and a fine of up to S$100,000 for each graft charge, as Xu found the hard way.
In his case, he was sentenced to five weeks in jail.
Fight Against Corruption Continues
Singapore is proud of its reputation as one of the least corrupt countries in the world. It didn’t come easy.
For many years, the government, law enforcement agencies like the Singapore Police Force and Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB), and society as a whole have fought hard against corruption.
As evident from Xu’s case, the country continues its unyielding stand on bribery and corruption.
Transparent Business Practices
Transparency serves as a vital piece of Singapore’s fight against corruption.
Strict adherence to fair business practices has set a clear benchmark for companies operating in the country.
This emphasis on transparency spans both governmental sector and private organisations, discouraging any form of clandestine practices.
Concluding Note
Just as cooking needs the right ingredients, a clean society requires transparent practices, stringent laws, and their strict enforcement.
With continued efforts from every part of society, Singapore aims to remain a city that’s clean in more ways than one.
As for the likes of Xu Shoupei, let’s hope lessons have been learned.
Would you risk your future over a handful of dollars?
