A 30-year-old Singaporean man has been charged with allegedly helping an Indonesian woman remain in Singapore illegally for nearly three years, as authorities pursue several immigration-related offences.
Sharizal Saidon was charged on Oct. 1 with abetting 30-year-old Indonesian national Alfira Mongan to overstay in Singapore. He also faces charges of allegedly harbouring her and obstructing an immigration officer in the execution of his duties.
Authorities said Mongan’s special pass expired on May 19, 2023. Sharizal allegedly allowed her to stay at his flat in Hougang Avenue 5 from May 20, 2023, until May 26, 2026, despite knowing that she was no longer legally permitted to remain in Singapore.
The case also involves an alleged attempt to prevent authorities from locating the woman. On May 26, Sharizal allegedly instructed Mongan to hide inside a closet to evade an immigration officer who was carrying out official duties.
Authorities said an unidentified 20-year-old man was also involved in the incident and was allegedly instructed to delete messages from Mongan’s phone.
Mongan was subsequently convicted and sentenced to 14 weeks’ imprisonment and fined S$2,000. She has since been deported from Singapore and barred from returning to the country.
The case highlights the legal risks faced by people who knowingly provide accommodation to immigration offenders. Authorities have repeatedly reminded landlords and residents to check the immigration status of foreign tenants and occupants.
Anyone found guilty of knowingly or recklessly harbouring an overstayer or illegal immigrant can face between six months and two years’ imprisonment, along with a fine of up to S$6,000.
Those who negligently harbour an overstayer can face up to 12 months’ imprisonment, a fine of up to S$6,000, or both. Separately, obstructing an immigration officer can carry a fine of up to S$4,000, up to 12 months’ imprisonment, or both.
The latest case comes as Singapore authorities continue enforcement against immigration offences, including overstaying, illegal employment and harbouring. Recent cases have involved Singaporeans accused of allowing foreign nationals to remain in the country for extended periods after their legal passes expired.
Sharizal’s case will now proceed through the courts, where the allegations against him will be considered through the legal process.
