52 Singaporeans arrested, detained in China over suspected pyramid scheme

Fifty-two Singaporean citizens have been arrested and detained in Guangxi, China, amid suspicions of a large-scale pyramid scheme, according to Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and police. This marks the largest number of Singaporeans arrested and detained overseas simultaneously. The MFA has been in communication with Chinese authorities through the Singapore Embassy in Beijing and the Singapore Consulate-General in Guangzhou, informing them that investigations are ongoing.

The detained individuals were reportedly held since mid-July, according to three sources CNA spoke to.

China's legal system permits suspects of certain offenses to be held for up to 37 days prior to a decision on formal arrest. The MFA has personally visited all 52 Singaporean detainees to ascertain their well-being and offer consular assistance. They have also maintained contact with their family members. Second Minister for Foreign Affairs and Home Affairs Sim Ann, during a press conference, emphasized that the Singapore government refrains from interfering in foreign judicial processes and investigations while concurrently providing consular support to its citizens.

Sim Ann also stressed that the Singapore government anticipates foreign governments to respect Singapore's laws and legal procedures.

The MFA has reiterated that Singaporeans should exercise vigilance when confronted with investment or business schemes, particularly those involving participant recruitment, substantial upfront payments, or the promise of exceptionally high returns. Furthermore, they were reminded to abide by the laws of their host countries while traveling or residing abroad.

In response to CNA's inquiries, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed that it adheres to legal procedures and safeguards the lawful rights and interests of those involved in such cases.