In an islandwide operation between 17 and 25 July 2025, the Singapore Police arrested 31 individuals and are investigating 13 more for allegedly providing fraudulently registered postpaid SIM cards to criminal syndicates in exchange for cash. The suspects, comprising 21 men and 10 women aged between 16 and 48, were arrested by officers from the Commercial Affairs Department, Criminal Investigation Department, and all seven Police Land Divisions. Nine additional men and four women, aged 16 to 57, are currently assisting with investigations.
Preliminary findings revealed that these individuals were offered cash incentives ranging from $10 to $15 for each SIM card they registered under their names. These suspects had each allegedly registered between 31 and 49 SIM cards, which were later handed over to unknown couriers. They were reportedly instructed to sign up for multiple postpaid mobile plans at various retail outlets across the island, using their personal details.
Authorities believe the SIM cards were passed to criminal syndicates that exploit them to facilitate a range of illegal activities. These include scam operations, unlicensed moneylending, and vice-related offences. Fraudulently registered SIM cards and eSIMs give syndicates a layer of anonymity, allowing them to conduct illegal operations while making it difficult for law enforcement to trace the true perpetrators.
This operation is part of an ongoing nationwide clampdown to prevent the misuse of telecommunication services for criminal purposes. Police emphasised that individuals who knowingly provide SIM cards for unlawful use, whether physical or electronic (eSIM), will face strict consequences. Under Section 39B(1) read with 39B(2)(a) of the Miscellaneous Offences (Public Order and Nuisance) Act 1906, anyone found guilty of such offences faces a fine of up to $10,000, a jail term of up to three years, or both.
Authorities are increasingly concerned about this trend, as such SIM cards are often key enablers of illicit activity. The Police reminded the public that SIM cards are personal digital assets and must not be resold, loaned, or registered on behalf of others without a legitimate reason. Owning multiple SIM cards without clear justification could also draw scrutiny.
Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant and avoid becoming complicit in such activities. The Police also urged people to report any suspicious behaviour involving mass SIM card registration or sales. Anyone with information can call the Police Hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submit tips anonymously via the i-Witness portal on the official police website. All information shared will be treated in strict confidence.
More information on SIM card misuse and its associated penalties is available at the Police website under the advisory section for SIM card offences.
The Singapore Police Force reiterated that they take a zero-tolerance stance toward the misuse of telecommunications infrastructure for crime and will not hesitate to act decisively against offenders.
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