20-3-2024 (SINGAPORE) Former Transport Minister S Iswaran has complied with authorities by returning to Singapore and surrendering his passport, as confirmed by a spokesperson from the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) on Wednesday (Mar 20).
Iswaran, who is currently out on bail, was required to be back in Singapore by Mar 19 as per the conditions set forth.
A criminal case disclosure conference (CCDC), initially scheduled for the morning of Mar 19 in the High Court, has been adjourned to Apr 2, according to the AGC spokesperson.
CCDC serves as a formal platform where both sides involved in a case exchange information, including presenting their arguments and the evidence they intend to rely on during the trial, ultimately facilitating the legal process.
In confirmation of the matter, a spokesperson from the judiciary informed CNA that the CCDC, which was supposed to take place on Mar 19, did not proceed as planned.
Iswaran, who is facing over 20 charges, including two counts of corruption, was initially granted permission to leave Singapore between Feb 16 and Mar 4. He utilized this period to accompany his son to Australia to settle into university.
However, during his trip, the former minister fell ill, which led to an extension of his stay outside Singapore by an additional 16 days, granted on Mar 4.
As part of the extension conditions, Iswaran was obligated to report to an investigation officer daily via video call.
Additional bail conditions were imposed when Iswaran initially sought permission to travel to Australia on Feb 8. These conditions included an additional bail amount of S$500,000 (US$374,000) in cash, on top of his existing bail of S$800,000.
Furthermore, Iswaran was required to provide his travel itinerary and overseas address to an investigating officer, and remain contactable at all times.
Iswaran faced multiple charges on Jan 18, following a public investigation into his activities. He pleaded not guilty to all 27 charges brought against him.
Among the charges, two relate to the alleged corrupt acquisition of bribes from billionaire Ong Beng Seng, while 24 charges pertain to obtaining valuable items while serving as a public servant. Additionally, one charge accuses him of obstructing justice.
Ong Beng Seng, the billionaire who owns the rights to the Singapore Grand Prix, has not been charged in relation to these offenses.
Iswaran played a significant role in the government’s dealings with Formula 1 and made the decision to resign from his ministerial position and the ruling People’s Action Party in January.
If found guilty of obtaining valuables as a public servant, Iswaran could face a maximum sentence of two years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both.
If convicted of corruptly obtaining gratification under the Prevention of Corruption Act, he may be sentenced to up to seven years’ imprisonment, fined up to S$100,000, or both.
In the case of obstructing justice, Iswaran could face a maximum penalty of seven years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both.
