Debated in Parliament on 9 Jul 2013.
Er Dr Lee Bee Wah asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs with recent reports of elderly residents falling prey to bogus HDB contractors (a) what is the current maximum penalty for such an offence; (b) whether they can also be prosecuted on the grounds of cheating by impersonation under the Penal Code; and (c) whether the Ministry will review the penalties for such offences to impose heavier punishment as a form of deterrence.
The specific offence that a bogus HDB contractor who preys on unsuspecting residents may face would depend on the facts and circumstances of the case. If he is charged under section 419 of the Penal Code for cheating by personation, he can be sentenced to imprisonment of up to five years, a fine or both.
The number of bogus contractor cases reported to the Police each year accounts for less than 1% of the overall cheating and theft in dwelling cases. Police's view is that the current penalties are adequate to deter would-be perpetrators and punish those who have committed offences under the guise of bogus contractors.
Aside from detection by the Police, we also urge the public not to allow anyone claiming to be a repairman or contractor to enter your house without verifying his identity. If in doubt, verify his identity with his company, or contact your family members or the Police for assistance. The public can help by keeping a lookout and reporting such dubious activities in their neighbourhood. Local community leaders can also reach out and educate elderly persons who are staying alone as they can be vulnerable to such crimes.
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