On July 14, 2023, the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) released a statement to the media regarding the arrest of Transport Minister S Iswaran and Ong Beng Seng, the Managing Director of Hotel Properties Limited which own the Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in Singapore
They revealed that both Iswaran and Ong were arrested on 11 July earlier this week.
Following the arrests, both individuals were later released on bail, according to the CPIB. As part of the bail conditions, their passports were impounded, restricting them from leaving the country.
However, the CPIB stated that individuals on bail have the option to make requests for overseas travel. Such requests will be carefully evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the CPIB.
Ong Beng Seng’s request to travel abroad was assessed and granted, but his bail amount was increased to S$100,000.
Once Ong returns to Singapore, he is required to report to the CPIB and surrender his passport to the Bureau as part of the bail conditions.
Due to the ongoing investigations, the CPIB refrained from disclosing any further details regarding the case at this time. The situation remains under investigation, and more information may be revealed as the inquiry progresses.
Recap
Singapore Minister of Tranport S. Iswaran was previously reported as assisting the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB), who have reportedly uncovered a case that has prompted the need for a thorough inquiry involving Minister Iswaran and several others.
He was subsequently told to take a leave of absence by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong until the investigations are complete, with his duties being taken over by Senior Minister of State Chee Hong Tat, who will assume the role of Acting Minister for Transport.
Following which, on 14 July, it was made public that Ong Beng Seng has been issued a notice of arrest by the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB), according to The Straits Times.
He has been asked to provide information to the CPIB about his interactions with Transport Minister S.Iswaran for their investigations.