PM Lee : Iswaran to assist S'pore anti-graft body with an investigation

SINGAPORE: Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong today said that Transport Minister S. Iswaran is currently assisting the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) with an investigation into a case uncovered by the bureau.

According to Lee, on July 5, the director of CPIB briefed him on a case the anti-graft body had uncovered and sought his concurrence to open a formal investigation.

"This would involve interviewing Minister Iswaran, among others," said Lee in his Facebook update today.

Lee added that he gave director CPIB his concurrence on July 6, following which the formal investigation began on July 11.

"Minister Iswaran is currently assisting CPIB with the investigations, which are ongoing," he said.

Lee noted that he has instructed Iswaran to take leave of absence until these investigations are completed.

In Iswaran's absence, the prime minister said Senior Minister of State Chee Hong Tat will be Acting Minister for Transport.

Separately, CPIB confirmed that Iswaran is currently assisting the bureau with the investigation.

"CPIB acknowledges the interest by members of the public in this case because a minister is being interviewed by CPIB. As investigations are ongoing, CPIB is unable to provide further details.

"CPIB will investigate this case thoroughly with strong resolve to establish the facts and the truth, and to uphold the rule of law," it said in a statement.

The bureau noted that Singapore adopts a strict zero-tolerance approach towards corruption.

"CPIB investigates all cases without fear or favour and will not hesitate to take action against any parties involved in corrupt activities," it said.

-- BERNAMA