Nine Foreign Nationals Deported from Singapore after Illegal Touting at Changi Airport

By
Loh Huey Xin
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Singapore authorities will deport nine foreign nationals caught engaging in illegal touting activities at Changi Airport.

The individuals, aged between 30 and 48, approached travelers of the same nationality to transport gold and mobile phones internationally in exchange for financial compensation.

Multi-Agency Operation Leads to Deportation of Airport Touts

A joint operation conducted on 22 Mar 2025 by the Singapore Police Force, Immigration and Checkpoints Authority, Ministry of Manpower and Changi Airport Group led to the investigation of nine foreign individuals involved in illegal touting at Changi Airport.

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The investigation revealed that these foreigners had specifically targeted fellow countrymen, asking them to carry gold and mobile phones back to their home countries.

The travelers were promised cash rewards once the items were successfully delivered to designated counterparts at their destinations.

Following thorough investigations, eight individuals had their work passes (Work Permits or S Passes) revoked by MOM, while one had his Short-Term Visit Pass cancelled by ICA.

All nine will be deported from Singapore and permanently barred from re-entering the country.

The joint statement by the four investigating organisations released on 30 Mar 2025 did not disclose the genders or nationalities of those involved in the illegal activities.

The official announcement also did not specify the exact timing of the deportations.

According to the authorities, the Singapore government takes a serious view of such illegal activities and will not hesitate to take firm action against individuals who violate Singapore’s laws.

Singapore’s Strict Enforcement Against Illegal Airport Activities

Under the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore Act, those caught touting at the airport will be issued a Prohibition Order.

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This order restricts them from entering the airport premises for a specific period unless they are boarding a flight themselves.

Individuals who ignore or flout this order can be arrested for criminal trespass.

The joint statement emphasized that foreign nationals holding work passes in Singapore are permitted to work only in their approved occupation and for their designated employer as stated in their work pass applications.

They cannot operate or take part in any other business activities while in Singapore.

Similarly, those visiting Singapore on Short-Term Visit Passes face strict limitations.

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They are prohibited from engaging in any form of employment—whether paid or unpaid—business, profession, or occupation during their stay in the country.

For context, S Passes are issued to mid-level skilled workers earning a minimum monthly salary of $3,150, while Work Permits are generally given to migrant workers in sectors such as construction and manufacturing, foreign domestic helpers, and performing artists.

This is not the first case of illegal touting at Changi Airport.

In a separate incident in October 2024, a man received a six-day jail sentence for entering Changi Airport despite an existing ban and attempting to persuade a stranger to transport gold.

The Singapore authorities have issued a clear warning to all travelers passing through Changi Airport to avoid carrying items for strangers, as doing so could potentially expose them to significant security risks or lead to their arrest and prosecution for involvement in illegal activities.

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Loh Huey Xin