Anti-graft bureau charges two former NParks officers

It was alleged the officers received gratuities and gifts through hotels stays and transport services.

The Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau has charged two former senior National Parks Board (NParks) officers for advancing business interest of certain companies in exchange for hotel accommodation and transport services.

The charges were made against former Senior Director of NParks’ Municipal Landscapes Division (MLD) Teva Raj S/O Palanisamy, and former Director of NParks’ MLD Go Kau Chai Johnny.

The corruption allegation stemmed from a 2018 incident when Teva and Johnny accepted a hotel stay, worth $258.42, in return for pushing forward on the specific business interest of a third party. The CPIB noted this was committed in Macau.

“For their actions, Teva and Johnny each face one charge for offences punishable under section 6(a) read with sections 7 and 37 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, Chapter 241,” the CPIB said.

In six separate incidents between 2018 and 2020, Teva also allegedly obtained gratification through transport services from a second company.

“For his actions, Teva faces one charge for an offence punishable under section 6(a) read with section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, Chapter 241 and amalgamated pursuant to section 124(4) of the Criminal Procedure Code, Chapter 68,” the CPIB also said.

At present, Singapore imposes a fine of up to $100,000 or up to five years of imprisonment, or both, against those convicted of corruption. The maximum jail time for each offence can also be increased up to 7 years, in vases that are related to government contracts.