Foreigners get arrested on purpose in Singapore to extend stay for selling sex pills

The Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) said the men deliberately offered bribes to enforcement officers, expecting to get caught and investigated. This allowed them to secure special passes, which let them remain in Singapore during investigations.

While out on these passes, which forbid any form of employment, they allegedly sold illegal sexual enhancement drugs in places like Geylang, notorious for its street peddlers, The Straits Times reported.

Authorities believe the scheme was orchestrated by a Singaporean drug abuser, now under investigation after being arrested by the Central Narcotics Bureau.

On July 18, the five men were formally charged with corruption. They had allegedly attempted to bribe police and environment officers in separate incidents between January and June this year, with amounts ranging from S$70 (US$55) to S$400. All the officers rejected the bribes, CNA reported.

Investigators revealed that while awaiting investigations, the men paid bailors to help secure and extend their bail, exploiting the system to stay in Singapore and continue their illegal activities. Xiao Xiezhi, 43, was even brought back to Geylang by CPIB officers on July 17 to retrace where he allegedly handed money to his bailors outside the New Cathay Hotel, a well-known hub for illegal trade.

During the operation, media observed several makeshift roadside stalls openly displaying sex enhancement pills for sale, despite the presence of officers.

Prosecutors argued that the men should be denied bail, warning of a "real risk of collusion," as they had committed crimes while previously released. The judge agreed, ordering them to be held in remand. Their next court appearance is set for Aug. 1.

In Singapore, bribery convictions carry a penalty of up to five years' jail and fines of up to S$100,000.