Nine individuals, aged between 19 and 35, have been arrested by the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) for suspected involvement in fixing games during the 2025 K. Star National Basketball League Division 1.
The league, organised by the Basketball Association of Singapore (BAS), runs from 14 July to 30 August this year and features some of the country’s most competitive semi-professional teams. According to CPIB’s press release, some of those arrested were active players in the tournament, raising serious concerns about the integrity of Singapore’s sports scene.
One of the alleged matches flagged for fixing was the 1 August game between Tagawa and Tong Whye, in which Tagawa triumphed 66-43. Investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of the corruption and whether more games were compromised.
Strict Zero-Tolerance Policy on Corruption
Singapore has long maintained a zero-tolerance stance on corruption, with CPIB emphasising that any form of bribery or match-fixing will not be condoned. “Firm enforcement action will be taken against any party found guilty of offering, receiving, or soliciting bribes to influence the outcome of a game,” the bureau said.
The arrests come at a time when Singapore is striving to strengthen its image as a clean and transparent sporting hub in Asia. Authorities fear that such scandals could undermine public trust in local leagues and discourage future investment in basketball development.
Match-Fixing Threatens Fair Play in Sports
Match-fixing remains one of the biggest threats to sports worldwide, as it not only cheats fans but also tarnishes the credibility of athletes and teams. In Singapore, such offences fall under the Prevention of Corruption Act, which carries severe penalties, including jail terms and hefty fines.
CPIB’s latest actions highlight how seriously the government views threats to sporting integrity. By clamping down swiftly, the agency aims to send a clear warning to others that corruption has no place in Singapore’s basketball scene — or in any sport.
The BAS has yet to issue a formal statement but is expected to tighten regulations and work closely with CPIB to ensure fair competition in future leagues.