The Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) and the Singapore Police Force have been alerted to a case of possible abuse of the COVID-19 Temporary Relief Fund (TRF). An Internet user had made an online post claiming that he was able to obtain the TRF aid without any documents and that the system was “so simple to cheat”. The Police have identified a 41-year-old male Singaporean behind the post and investigations are ongoing.
The Police are also aware that there are advertisements on social media purportedly selling forged payslips for the purpose of making fraudulent TRF claims. MSF and the Police treat such cases seriously and will not hesitate to take action against anyone who abuses and/or facilitates the abuse of the TRF. MSF is conducting checks on all applications to detect forged payslips. Members of the public are warned that these advertisements may be scams and are advised not to respond to them.
Abuse of the TRF may constitute an offence of cheating and will be immediately referred to the Police for investigation. The offence of cheating carries an imprisonment for a term of up to 10 years, and a fine.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
12 April 2020 @ 8:45 PM