On 6 January 2026, a 42-year-old Malaysian man, Yusman Bin Yusoff (“Yusman”) was sentenced to four weeks’ imprisonment for attempting to enter Singapore illegally at the bus hall of Tuas Checkpoint. He was charged for failure to present a passport for clearance under Section 5A(1)(b) of the Immigration Act 1959.

2.        On 22 December 2025, at around 12pm, Yusman attempted to tailgate another traveller who was undergoing immigration clearance at one of the automated lanes of the bus hall. He followed closely behind the traveller in an attempt to pass through the automated lanes without presenting his passport. His actions were detected by ICA’s automated lanes, which alerted an officer stationed at the lanes. The officer proceeded to stop Yusman and the traveller in front of him. 

3.        During the interviews and checks, it was established that Yusman and the traveller were not acquainted with each other. Yusman was also not in possession of any travel documents and had intentionally tailgated the traveller in an attempt to enter Singapore illegally. Yusman was subsequently placed under arrest by ICA officers.

4.        This detection is a testament to ICA's effectiveness in keeping Singapore’s borders safe and secure, while providing a convenient and seamless immigration clearance experience. ICA’s automated lanes at the checkpoints are equipped with mechanisms that can detect anomalies, such as tailgating, and alert officers for immediate intervention. This ensures that attempts to enter or depart Singapore illegally are quickly detected and prevented, safeguarding Singapore's borders.

5.        All persons, whether entering or departing Singapore, are required to present a valid travel document to an immigration officer. Under the Immigration Act 1959, any person who fails to do so is liable to a fine not exceeding $2,000, or a jail term of up to 6 months, or both. 

IMMIGRATION & CHECKPOINTS AUTHORITY
6 JANUARY 2026