In the glitzy world of casinos, where fortunes can be made or lost in the blink of an eye, a recent incident at Marina Bay Sands (MBS) casino sheds light on a daring card-counting syndicate. Meet Hung Jung-Hao, a 28-year-old from Taiwan, whose involvement in a sophisticated scheme landed him behind bars for 22 months.

Unraveling the Syndicate

Hung’s journey into the world of advantage play began when he joined forces with his poker association girlfriend, Chou Yu-Lun, in late 2021. The syndicate, comprising members from Taiwan and Malaysia, employed the art of card counting to tilt the odds in their favor at the baccarat tables.

The Secret Formula

Armed with a clandestine Microsoft Excel sheet, the syndicate devised a secret formula with codes corresponding to the values and suits of cards. This covert tool became their key to success, allowing members to relay strategic information to betting accomplices at the baccarat tables.

Winning Big, Getting Caught

Over eight days in December 2022, the syndicate managed to amass an impressive S$433,730 (US$324,100) from their operations at MBS casino. However, their winning streak came to an abrupt end when casino employees, vigilant through closed-circuit television footage, detected their suspicious conduct.

The Role of Hung Jung-Hao

Hung played an auxiliary role in the syndicate, placing small bets at the table and transmitting information on behalf of the enigmatic “sorcerer.” This female member, guided by the “marksman” with access to the formula in a hotel room, orchestrated the strategic moves.

Defense Arguments

Hung’s lawyer, Mr. Sng Kheng Huat, argued that his client’s involvement was minor compared to others in the syndicate. While admitting to the role, Mr. Sng emphasized that Hung was unaware of the intricate planning and premeditation. However, the judge countered, stating that Hung was not a mere bystander and had knowledge of the sophisticated scheme.

Sentencing and Plea for Leniency

Despite arguments for leniency, District Judge Koo Zhi Xuan emphasized the severity of such offenses. Hung, though playing a lesser role than some co-accused, was not absolved of culpability. The judge stressed the need for a deterrent sentence, considering the transnational nature and sophistication of the syndicate.

Hung’s mother, in a heartfelt letter, pleaded for leniency, describing her son as a considerate and well-behaved individual. She expressed the toll the situation had taken on her, hoping for his repatriation to Taiwan for the Chinese New Year.

Conclusion

The case of Hung Jung-Hao and the card-counting syndicate provides a glimpse into the high-stakes world of advantage play. As casinos tighten security, such schemes face increasing challenges. The allure of quick riches comes with significant legal risks, as exemplified by the stern sentences handed down to those involved.

In recent news, a 60-year-old man has been arrested by the Woodlands Police Division in connection with an alleged case of outrage of modesty. This incident, which occurred on 25 December 2023 at a shopping center in Yishun Central, has raised concerns about community safety. In this article, we will delve into the details of the incident, the swift response by the police, legal consequences, and the broader implications for community safety.

The Incident on 25 December 2023

On the afternoon of Christmas Day, at approximately 2:30 pm, a report reached the Police about the alleged molestation of a child at a popular shopping center. The details of the incident remain unsettling, highlighting the need for swift and decisive action to ensure the safety of the community.

Police Response and Arrest

Woodlands Police Division demonstrated commendable efficiency by swiftly responding to the report and apprehending the suspect at the scene. The immediate arrest is a testament to law enforcement’s commitment to addressing such offenses promptly.

Charges and Legal Consequences

The 60-year-old man is set to face charges under Section 354(2) of the Penal Code 1871, specifically for the outrage of modesty. This offense carries severe penalties, including imprisonment for up to five years, fines, caning, or a combination of these punishments.

Zero Tolerance Policy

The Police emphasize their zero-tolerance policy towards sexual offenders who pose a threat to community safety. This stern approach is crucial in maintaining public trust and ensuring the well-being of individuals within the community.

Call to Vigilance

In light of this incident, the Police urge members of the public to remain vigilant. The community plays a vital role in assisting law enforcement by promptly reporting any witnessed incidents of molestation. This collaborative effort is essential for creating a safer environment.

Four Men Detained for Importing Electronic Vaporisers

            Four men, aged between 16 years old and 24 years old, have been detained and are being investigated for their suspected involvement in importing electronic vaporisers (e-vaporisers) into Singapore via Tuas Checkpoint.

2.         On 21 December 2023, Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers at Tuas Checkpoint profiled and directed an arriving Singapore-registered car for secondary checks. During the inspection, officers uncovered 25 pieces of e-vaporisers and related components hidden below the driver’s and passenger’s seats, within a bag of food and within one of the subject’s clothing. The estimated street value of the seized e-vaporisers and components is estimated to be more than $200. The subjects and the seized exhibits were referred to the Health Sciences Authority (HSA).

3.          HSA’s investigations revealed that the men had purchased the e-vaporisers and related components from a shopping mall in Johor Bahru before attempting to enter Singapore using a car rented from a car-sharing platform.

4.         HSA will not hesitate to take stern enforcement actions on those who conduct illegal activities such as importing or selling prohibited e-vaporisers to members of the
public.

Penalties for such offences in Singapore

5.          HSA would like to remind the public that it is an offence to import, distribute,
sell or offer for sale e-vaporisers and their components. Any person convicted of an offence is liable to a fine of up to $10,000, or imprisonment of up to six months or both for the first offence, and a fine of up to $20,000, or imprisonment of up to 12 months or both for the second or subsequent offence. All prohibited tobacco items will also be seized and confiscated.

Electronic vaporisers refer to battery-operated devices which deliver vaporised nicotine for users to inhale. They come in forms such as e-cigarettes, e-pipes, e-cigars and the like.

This offence falls under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act.

Consumer advisory

6.          Safeguarding Singapore’s borders remains a top priority for ICA. ICA will continue to conduct security checks and work with relevant authorities to detect and deter smuggling attempts so as to keep Singapore safe.

7.          Members of the public are reminded that the possession, use or purchase of e-vaporisers is illegal and carries a maximum fine of $2000. Information pertaining to prohibited tobacco products in Singapore is available on the HSA website and more details about the harms of e-vaporisers can be found in this HealthHub article.

8.         Members of the public who have information on the illegal import, distribution, sale or offer for sale of e-vaporisers can contact HSA’s Tobacco Regulation Branch at Tel: 6684 2036 or 6684 2037 during office hours (9:00am to 5:30pm, Monday to Friday).

HEALTH SCIENCES AUTHORITY
IMMIGRATION & CHECKPOINTS AUTHORITY
28 DECEMBER 2023

In a daring attempt to fund his living expenses and support his family back in Vietnam, 22-year-old Vietnamese university student Le Viet Hoang took desperate measures, breaking into offices at Apple and the Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*Star) to steal items for resale, according to TODAY.

The elaborate scheme ultimately led to his arrest when he returned some of the stolen Apple products, inadvertently triggering an alarm.

A Tale of Desperation

Le Viet Hoang, in Singapore for an internship with AStar as an assistant researcher, found himself financially strained. Determined to ease his burdens, he hatched a plan to steal items from both AStar and Apple offices.

Starting his internship on May 22, 2023, Hoang had access to A*Star’s offices, working late into the night. Recognizing the absence of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, he exploited the opportunity to move undetected.

Between June 1 and July 30, Hoang systematically stole laptops, tablets, and computer accessories from A*Star offices on levels nine and ten. He even learned lock-picking to access secured areas containing more valuable items.

In July, Hoang targeted Apple’s offices, cognizant of the higher resale value of their products. A building-wide power shutdown provided the cover he needed to break into Apple’s offices on level four, making away with iPads, iPhones, and accessories.

Guilt and Capture

As his internship neared its end, guilt began to consume Hoang. Faced with remorse, he decided to return some stolen items to Apple, triggering an alarm during his covert mission.

Mr. Pusparaj Pantiyan, a vigilant security officer patrolling level six of the Innovis Building, responded to the alarm. Spotting Hoang under a table on level four with the returned iPads and charging cables, Mr. Pusparaj promptly called the police.

Legal Consequences

Hoang faced the consequences of his actions in court, pleading guilty to multiple charges, including housebreaking and theft. The court sentenced him to 11 months’ jail, taking into consideration six other similar charges.

While Hoang made full restitution to A*Star for the items sold, the incident shines a light on the challenges faced by individuals navigating financial difficulties, often resorting to desperate measures.

A local Vietnamese bride matchmaking company in Singapore, B & G Vietnamese Bride Marriage Agency, posted an advertising post of one of their brides on Facebook, hoping to help her find a husband in Singapore.

The Facebook post quickly went viral, garnering more than 1,400 shares in 4 days.

The post stipulated that candidates must be below 36 years old and earn a minimum of $4,800 per month just to initiate communication.

The agency’s approach has raised eyebrows, challenging the conventional notion that love knows no financial boundaries. This incident prompts reflection on whether such prerequisites align with the essence of genuine romantic connections.

Online response

The Facebook post, garnering over 1,400 comments, became a focal point for discussions on social media platforms. Netizens expressed diverse opinions, with some criticizing the Vietnamese woman for prioritizing financial status over genuine connection.

The Facebook post

Name : Miss *name withheld*
Age : 17 yrs old (9/2006)
Height : 1.68m
Weight : 45kg
Education : Doing Senior High School now

No boyfriend before. Very lovely lady.

But need to interact with her for 9 months (till she is 18 yrs old), then can get married. Make use of the 9 months to know each other better.

Looking for guys below 36 yrs old and earning at least S$4800. If you are earning less than this, you will find it challenging to be a sole breadwinner with a take home pay of S$3800.

Many marriages with foreign spouses break down due to financial issues. Consider properly.

Marry a Singaporean and have dual income. You will be so much more comfortable with your finances.

Source: B & G Vietnamese Bride Marriage Agency

As we step into the new year, Changi Airport is unwrapping a delightful gift for shoppers, ensuring that the increase in Goods and Services Tax (GST) from 8 to 9 per cent on January 1, 2024, doesn’t dent the retail experience. Participating retail shops in the public areas of all four terminals will continue to absorb the GST throughout the year, offering a seamless shopping experience for travelers and visitors alike.

GST Savings

To enjoy the ongoing GST savings, shoppers need only to sign up for the free Changi Rewards loyalty programme. This initiative allows travelers to absorb the GST seamlessly, contributing to a more budget-friendly and enjoyable shopping experience within the airport’s terminals.

Adding a layer of excitement to the GST savings, Changi Airport introduces the “2XGST” promotion. For nine days in January, specifically on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays (Jan. 12 to 14, 19 to 21, and 26 to 28), shoppers can revel in an additional 9 per cent off their purchases. This bonus discount applies to items with a minimum nett value of S$30, calculated after deducting all other discounts.

Exclusive Offers for Changi Pay Users

For customers who spend a minimum of S$60 and opt to pay using Mastercard via Changi’s digital wallet, Changi Pay, an extra perk awaits. They will receive a S$9 Changi Pay return voucher credited to their account. This incentive not only adds value to the shopping experience but also encourages the use of Changi’s digital payment platform.

Participating outlets

Terminal 1

• Cosmetics & Perfumes By Shilla (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• WH Smith (Level 2, Departure Hall)

Terminal 2

• Baker’s Well (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• Bee Cheng Hiang (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• Cosmetics & Perfumes By Shilla (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• Eu Yan Sang (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• Guardian Health and Beauty (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• Levure Naturelle (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• Lynk Artisan (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• The Cocoa Trees (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• WH Smith (Level 2, Departure Hall)

Terminal 3

• Bengawan Solo (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• Boarding Gate & The Wallet Shop (Basement 2)
• Chomel (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• Cosmetics & Perfumes By Shilla (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• Eu Yan Sang (Basement 2)
• Fragrance Bak Kwa (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• Godiva (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• Guardian Health and Beauty (Basement 2)
• Jon Louis (Basement 2)
• Kawata House of Socks (Basement 2)
• Kidztime! (Basement 2)
• Peniwern (Basement 2)
• Poh Kim (Basement 2)
• Seeds of Joy (Basement 2)
• Szan (Basement 2)
• The Blues (Basement 2)
• The Body Shop (Basement 2)
• The Cocoa Trees (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• The Digital Gadgets (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• Unity Pharmacy (Basement 2)

Terminal 4

• Bakery Cuisine (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• Bee Cheng Hiang (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• Choco Express (Level 2, Departure Hall)
• Cosmetics & Perfumes By Shilla (Level 2, Departure Hall)