Islandwide Enforcement Targets Illegal Delivery Riders in Singapore
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has stepped up enforcement efforts against illegal delivery work across Singapore, following concerns raised by local delivery riders. Over the past weeks, officers conducted surprise checks at known hotspots identified through feedback from the National Delivery Champions Association (NDCA).
According to Senior Parliamentary Secretary Sun Xueling, a total of 375 delivery workers were inspected during these operations. Of them, three foreign nationals were arrested for allegedly working without valid permits. Authorities are also investigating Singaporeans suspected of abetting these foreigners by allowing them to use their delivery accounts.
MOM reminded the public that foreigners caught working without a proper work pass could face a fine of up to S$20,000, jail for up to two years, or both. Singaporeans or permanent residents who assist such offences may be subject to the same penalties.
Protecting Local Jobs and Platform Workers
The enforcement operations highlight the government’s commitment to safeguarding the livelihoods of local riders at a time when gig economy jobs have become an essential source of income. With rising demand for food delivery and e-commerce logistics, there are growing concerns that illegal riders could undercut legitimate workers.
The NDCA, which regularly engages delivery riders, has played an active role in flagging suspicious activity. Their feedback helped identify locations where foreign riders without valid permits were believed to be operating. The Ministry of Transport has also been working alongside MOM to ensure platform work remains sustainable and fair.
These checks come even as the Platform Workers Trilateral Group, formed by government, unions, and platform companies, develops recommendations to improve working conditions and protect the rights of delivery workers.
Public Reaction and Calls for Stricter Rules
The enforcement has sparked lively discussions online. Some Singaporeans have welcomed the crackdown, praising it as necessary to protect local employment. Others have called for even tighter regulations, such as requiring biometric verification when collecting food orders to prevent account misuse.
There have also been suggestions to treat delivery jobs like taxi driving, where only locals are permitted to work, to ensure that Singaporeans retain access to such income opportunities. Meanwhile, residents have urged similar enforcement action against illegal ride-hailing services, which are said to be increasingly common.
With platform work forming a growing part of the economy, the government has emphasised that consistent enforcement and regulatory updates will be crucial in maintaining fairness, safety, and sustainability for all workers.