- MOM arrested 27 people in a raid across 17 addresses in Singapore.
- 13 migrant domestic workers were caught working illegally as household cleaners.
- 14 errant employers were arrested for aiding in illegal employment.
A recent bust by MOM reveals a shocking case of illegal cleaners and work pass violations in Singapore.
MOM Cracks Down on Illegal Employment
According to The Straits Times, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) conducted a major operation on 30 July 2024.
MOM raided 17 addresses across Singapore.
The operation led to the arrest of 27 individuals.
These arrests were linked to illegal employment and work pass violations.
13 of those arrested were migrant domestic workers.
Here are some key highlights to note:
- Migrant workers were found working as illegal cleaners for houses.
- These workers did not have valid work passes.
- They were working outside their employers’ homes, breaking work pass rules.
Errant Employers Face Serious Charges
Adrian Quek from MOM told ST, “Offenders have been taken to task for deliberately undermining our work pass controls.”
14 suspects were employers who helped recruit these migrant workers illegally.
These employers applied for work passes for the workers.
They then let the workers seek job as illegal cleaners for houses.
MOM is still investigating these cases.
Take a look at this quick table for a clear overview:
| Offence | Potential Punishment |
|---|---|
| Working without valid work pass | Fine up to S$20,000, jail up to 2 years, or both |
| Making false declarations in work pass applications | Fine, imprisonment, or both, and work pass privileges suspended |
| Violating work pass conditions | Barred from future employment in Singapore |
Consequences for Offenders
Migrant workers found guilty may be barred from working in Singapore.
Employers face fines, jail time, and loss of work pass privileges.
MOM will continue to enforce work pass rules strictly.
Adrian Quek also stated, “We will continue to step up our enforcement efforts and will not hesitate to take stern action against such offenders to ensure compliance with our employment laws.”
Public’s Role in Reporting Illegal Employment
MOM urges the public to report illegal employment activities.
People can call 6438 5122 to report such cases.
They can also email MOM at mom_fmmd@mom.gov.sg with information.
These reports help MOM take action against offenders.
Understanding Singapore’s Employment Laws
All employers must submit accurate information for work pass applications.
Foreign workers must have valid work passes to be employed in Singapore.
Migrant domestic workers can only work at their employer’s home.
Employers cannot release workers to seek other jobs.
Here are some key points about Singapore’s employment laws:
- Work passes are specific to the job and employer.
- Changing jobs requires a new work pass application.
- Employers must cancel work passes when employment ends.
Protecting Migrant Workers’ Rights
MOM’s actions aim to protect migrant workers from exploitation.
Illegal employment often leads to poor working conditions.
Workers without valid passes may not have proper insurance.
They may also miss out on other legal protections.
Take a look at this quick table for a clear overview:
| Legal Employment Benefits | Risks of Illegal Employment |
|---|---|
| Work injury compensation | No injury protection |
| Proper salary payments | Risk of underpayment |
| Rest days and leave | Possible overwork |
| Safe working conditions | Potential safety hazards |
Impact on Singapore’s Labour Market
Illegal employment affects Singapore’s labour market balance.
It creates unfair competition for legal businesses.
This practice can lead to lower wages for local workers.
It may also reduce job opportunities for Singaporeans.
MOM’s Ongoing Efforts
MOM conducts regular checks and raids to catch offenders.
The ministry also educates employers and workers about the law.
Penalties for breaking employment laws are severe.
These efforts aim to maintain a fair and legal work environment in Singapore.
MOM’s recent bust on these illegal cleaners shows its commitment to enforcing employment laws and protecting workers’ rights in Singapore.
