The Singapore Police Force (SPF) has announced the arrest of six individuals suspected of involvement in illicit cyber activities connected to a global cybercrime syndicate. The arrests include five Chinese nationals and one Singaporean man, highlighting Singapore’s ongoing efforts to combat cyber threats and maintain cybersecurity within its borders.
Coordinated Raids and Arrests
On September 9, 2024, a coordinated operation involving approximately 160 law enforcement officials was conducted across several locations in Singapore. The simultaneous raids led to the apprehension of six men aged between 32 and 42. According to the SPF, these individuals are suspected of being linked to a “global syndicate” engaged in malicious cyber activities.
Seizure of Electronic Devices and Cash
During the operation, authorities seized a significant amount of electronic equipment and cash, including:
- Laptops: Multiple units containing potentially incriminating data.
- Mobile Phones: Devices that may hold communication records and other evidence.
- Cash: Totalling more than S$78,600 (approximately USD$60,300).
- Cryptocurrency: Worth approximately USD$850,000, indicating sophisticated financial operations.
Details of the Arrested Individuals
- 42-year-old Chinese National (Bidadari Park Drive): Found in possession of a laptop containing credentials to access web servers used by known hacker groups. Although specific hacker groups were not disclosed, the presence of such credentials suggests deep involvement in cybercriminal activities.
- Three Chinese Nationals (Mount Sinai Avenue): These individuals possessed laptops containing personal information related to foreign internet service providers, hacking tools, and specialized malware control software such as PlugX—a remote access trojan widely used by Chinese state-sponsored groups. Authorities seized seven laptops, eleven mobile phones, and cash worth more than S$54,600 (approximately USD$41,900) from them.
- 38-year-old Chinese National (Cairnhill Road): Suspected of offering to purchase personally identifiable information believed to have been obtained illegally.
- 34-year-old Singaporean Man (Hougang Avenue): Allegedly assisted the other suspects in their malicious activities, potentially facilitating operations within Singapore.
Additional Arrest
According to Channel News Asia, a sixth Chinese national was subsequently arrested and charged on Wednesday for instructing the Singaporean man to subscribe to a Singtel broadband plan. This development suggests ongoing investigations and potential expansion of the case.
Legal Charges and Potential Penalties
The defendants have been charged under the Computer Misuse Act 1993 for:
- Gaining Unauthorized Access to Computer Material
- Retaining Personal Information Without Authorization
- Possessing Software for Malicious Purposes
The 34-year-old Singaporean national faces additional charges of abetting unauthorized access to websites, an offense punishable by:
- A fine of up to S$5,000 (approximately USD$3,830)
- Imprisonment for up to two years
- Or both, for a first-time offender
Official Statement from Singapore Police Force
The SPF emphasized the significance of this operation in a public statement:
“This is a significant operation as the individuals are suspected to be carrying out global malicious cyber operations from Singapore. We have zero tolerance of the use of Singapore to conduct criminal activities, including illegal cyber activities. We will deal severely with perpetrators.”
Conclusion
The arrests underscore Singapore’s proactive stance against cybercrime and its commitment to safeguarding its digital infrastructure. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the SPF and other law enforcement agencies are intensifying efforts to identify and dismantle networks involved in illicit cyber activities. The operation serves as a warning to cybercriminals that Singapore will not be a safe haven for illegal activities.
Note: All monetary values are approximate and based on exchange rates at the time of reporting.
