From November 25 to November 29, 2024, a coordinated enforcement operation involving the Singapore Police Force (SPF), Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA), Singapore Customs, and the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) was carried out across various land, sea, and air checkpoints. This initiative aimed to enhance compliance with Singapore’s Cross-Border Cash Reporting Regime (CBCRR) and to combat illegal cross-border activities.
During the five-day operation, authorities conducted thorough checks on over 8,100 travelers, inspected 950 vehicles, and scanned more than 14,000 pieces of luggage and hand-carry bags. The results of these checks revealed several violations related to cash reporting and customs regulations.
Cross-Border Cash Reporting Regime (CBCRR) Offences
Several significant CBCRR offences were detected during the operation:
- On November 25, three foreign travelers (two males and one female, aged between 53 and 74) were found bringing cash amounts ranging from S$23,000 to S$38,000 into Singapore without proper declaration.
- On November 26, a 43-year-old male foreign traveler was caught with over S$22,000 in undeclared cash.
- On November 27, a 49-year-old male foreign traveler was apprehended with more than S$1.3 million in cash, having provided an inaccurate report regarding the amount he was carrying.
- On November 28, three additional male foreign travelers, aged between 35 and 74, were detected with cash amounts between S$21,000 and S$38,400, also without declaration.
Out of the eight travelers caught with cash exceeding S$20,000, four received Notices of Warning, while three were issued composition sums totaling S$12,000. Investigations are ongoing for the traveler who provided false information regarding cash movement.
Customs Offences
In addition to cash reporting violations, 51 travelers were found guilty of failing to declare and pay taxes on dutiable items, including cigarettes, liquor, and goods exceeding their GST import relief allowances. The total amount of duty and GST evaded exceeded S$2,300, leading to composition fines exceeding S$17,000. Notably, one traveler was fined for bringing in 859 grams of cigars and 11 sticks of cigarettes that did not comply with Singapore’s Standardised Packaging (SP) requirements.
Tobacco Control Violations
The operation also identified 12 travelers in possession of e-vaporisers and smokeless tobacco products, which are prohibited under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act. Offenders face fines and potential imprisonment for such violations.
Commitment to Border Security
Mr. David Chew, Director of the Commercial Affairs Department, emphasized the importance of the CBCRR in combating money laundering and other criminal activities. He noted that the penalties for non-compliance have been significantly increased to deter such offenses. Travelers are reminded to declare any cash movements exceeding S$20,000 electronically within 72 hours before entering or leaving Singapore.
The ICA remains committed to safeguarding Singapore’s borders and will continue to collaborate with relevant authorities to detect and prevent smuggling and other illegal activities. For more information on cash reporting and customs regulations, travelers are encouraged to visit the SPF and ICA websites.
This operation underscores the ongoing efforts by Singaporean authorities to maintain strict control over cross-border activities and ensure compliance with national laws, thereby enhancing the safety and security of the nation.