Singapore’s “Mask‑Maverick” Faces Deportation After Jail Time
Benjamin Glynn, a 40‑year‑old Brit who strolled into South‑East Asia as a recruitment consultant, turned the country’s COVID rules into a personal vendetta. After a court spat, he earned a six‑week sentence that now lands him back on home soil.
How the Drama Unfolds
- Four charges led to his conviction: two under the COVID‑19 (Temporary Measures) Act, one for harassment, and one for being a public nuisance.
- The judge, Eddy Tham, placed the sentence back‑dated to July 19—the day he first went into custody.
- He spent the first two weeks (Jul. 19‑Aug. 4) in regular prison, then two weeks (Aug. 5‑Aug. 18) at the Institute of Mental Health.
- Because his time in detention covered over two‑thirds of the sentence, he was granted release on good‑behaviour remission.
Deportation On the Horizon
Once out, Glynn was handed over to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). The ICA will coordinate his escorted departure from the Lion City. Singapore’s rules mean foreign offenders who finish their term get their work passes cancelled and sent back home.
Why the “Mask‑Maverick” Made Headlines
- A 5‑minute clip surfaced in May where Glynn, on a train, declared: “I will never wear a mask.” The video spread like wildfire.
- During court, he floated a bizarre “sovereign” claim, asserting he had no contract with the Singaporean government.
- Judge Tham described him as a “blatant disregard for the law” and sided with the prosecution.
What the Law Says
- COVID‑19 (Temporary Measures) violations can lead to up to 6 months in jail and a fine of $10,000.
- Harassment may carry up to 1 year in jail and a $5,000 fine.
The story first broke in The Straits Times; reproduction requires permission. Stay tuned for updates on the Welshman’s return to the UK.
