Singapore lawyer and politician Lim Tean has been arrested in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, after failing to surrender to begin serving his jail sentence in Singapore.
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) confirmed on Aug. 7 that the 61-year-old was detained by the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) on Aug. 6. Authorities are now working with their Malaysian counterparts to facilitate his return to Singapore.
According to the SPF, Lim had an outstanding warrant of arrest after he failed to report to court as ordered to begin serving his sentence for practising law without a valid practising certificate.
Singapore Police Working with Malaysian Authorities
In response to media queries, the SPF said it is collaborating closely with the Royal Malaysia Police to secure Lim’s return to Singapore.
The police also expressed appreciation to the Malaysian authorities for their swift assistance in locating and arresting him.
Lim was required to surrender to serve a jail sentence of three months and one week after being convicted of practising law without a valid certificate.
His failure to report to the authorities resulted in the Singapore courts issuing a warrant for his arrest.
Arrest Reportedly Took Place at Johor Bahru Apartment Complex
Chinese-language newspaper Shin Min Daily News reported that Lim had travelled to Johor Bahru before being arrested at an apartment complex.
The report stated that some units within the development are rented out as short-term holiday accommodation.
Prior to his arrest, Lim had reportedly become unreachable. His lawyer informed the court that he was unable to contact his client, while Lim’s bailor also failed to establish communication with him.
The disappearance prompted concerns after Lim did not surrender as directed.
Jail Term Was Previously Deferred
Lim was originally scheduled to surrender at noon on Jul. 20 to begin serving his sentence.
However, the Court of Appeal granted his application to defer the commencement of his jail term on Jul. 17, allowing him additional time before reporting to prison.
Following the deferment, the court ordered Lim to surrender by 12pm on Aug. 3.
He failed to do so, resulting in the issuance of the arrest warrant.
Return to Singapore Expected
With Lim now in Malaysian police custody, Singapore authorities are expected to complete the necessary arrangements for his return.
The case highlights the close cooperation between Singapore and Malaysia’s law enforcement agencies in executing outstanding warrants involving cross-border movements.
Once returned to Singapore, Lim is expected to begin serving his jail sentence unless further legal proceedings arise from his failure to surrender as ordered.