Singapore Security Boss Sentenced for Bribery Scam
Chan Kuen Thong, 64, who ran the security arm at Takashimaya Singapore, got a tidy 10‑month jail term and a fine of $42,500 on Tuesday, Oct. 19. The old man is also a senior manager at the mall – a double whammy of responsibility and mischief.
What Went Down
- When Takashimaya’s top security provider missed the mark in 2016, Chan had to find a new crew.
- He picked White Knights Security Services, a choice that landed the firm an annual contract from Jan 1, 2017.
- White Knights was supposed to staff 18 day‑shift and six night‑shift guard posts.
- But the company was short on guards – often missing three to five day‑shift officers at a time.
The Bribe Deal
Chan complained about the shortage to White Knights’ director, Mandhir Singh Karpal Singh, who was 30 at the time. The next step: a hush‑money arrangement.
- Mandhir offered Chan $4,000 a month in exchange for not filing compensation claims for the guard shortfall.
- An agreement that saved White Knights roughly $12,300–$20,500 each month.
- Over the last decade, Mandhir handed Chan a total of $121,000 in cash on 20 occasions.
- In return, Chan sat back and didn’t raise any claims for the missing guards.
Legal Fallout
Both men were charged on March 17 under Singapore’s Prevention of Corruption Act. Mandhir, a permanent resident, was eventually handed 10 months in jail on Aug 16. Chan got his 10‑month sentence and the fine.
Takeaway for Businesses
Singapore’s anti‑corruption stance is getting strict. Companies are urged to set up solid procurement and internal audit processes. The Pact: A Practical Anti‑Corruption Guide for Businesses in Singapore is the go‑to manual on tightening the screws.
Sources: CPIB press release and The Straits Times. Permission required to reproduce. Bribery • Jail term • Fine • Corruption
