Chinese Couple, Both 68, Lived Illegally In Singapore For Nearly 19 Years Before Surrendering After Running Out Of Money

A Chinese couple, both aged 68, are facing deportation after spending nearly two decades living illegally in Singapore. The woman eventually surrendered to the authorities after running out of money to support herself.

Ding Hui Yun was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment and fined S$2,000 on Oct 21 after pleading guilty to remaining in Singapore unlawfully for 19 years, two months and 23 days.

According to court proceedings reported by Channel NewsAsia, Ding first faced an immigration offence in May 2007, for which she received four weeks’ imprisonment and a S$1,500 fine.

Following her sentence, she was temporarily allowed to remain in Singapore as a prosecution witness for the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). Her special pass was subsequently extended until mid-July 2007.

However, Ding failed to report for her scheduled repatriation and continued staying in Singapore without valid immigration status.

Stayed In Singapore To Avoid Debts Back Home

The court heard that Ding had chosen to remain in Singapore because she wanted to avoid debtors in China, where her family was experiencing financial difficulties.

Over the years, she reportedly survived by taking on various odd jobs.

Her unlawful stay eventually came to an end on Oct 6, when she voluntarily surrendered to ICA officers together with her husband. The couple reportedly ran out of money and could no longer afford to support themselves.

During her sentencing, Ding appealed for a lighter punishment, highlighting her diabetes and her decision to surrender voluntarily.

She also expressed her hope of serving her sentence and returning to China together with her husband, who suffers from hypertension.

Neither of them had a passport, according to what Ding told the court.

Husband Also Faces Similar Immigration Charge

Ding’s husband was initially expected to plead guilty to a similar immigration offence on Oct 21. However, he was reportedly unwell and unable to attend the proceedings.

Court records indicated that he was expected to return to court the following week to plead guilty to allegedly remaining in Singapore illegally for more than 18 years and 10 months.

District Judge Janet Wang said a firm sentence was necessary, noting that immigration offences involving prolonged unlawful stays could be difficult for authorities to detect.

The judge also took into consideration Ding’s previous conviction and the lengthy period she had remained in Singapore unlawfully.

Under Singapore’s immigration laws, individuals who remain in the country illegally after their special passes expire can face up to six months’ imprisonment and a fine of up to S$6,000 in lieu of caning.

Ding was ordered to pay a S$2,000 fine. If she is unable to pay, she will have to serve an additional 12 days in prison.

The case highlights the consequences of overstaying in Singapore, even when individuals eventually surrender themselves to the authorities voluntarily.