SINGAPORE, Sept 18 — Authorities charged two Indian nationals in court today for allegedly offering sexual favours to an Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officer in exchange for help with their short-term visit pass applications.

According to a report by CNA, Arya Monu, 29, and Bharat, 21, each face one count of corruption for allegedly bribing ICA inspector Kannan Morice Rajagopal Jayaram.

“These bribes were intended as an inducement for Kannan to help (Arya) and Bharat with their short-term visit pass applications with the ICA,” the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) said in a statement.

Arya told the court he intends to plead guilty and will not be engaging a lawyer, with his mention set for October 30.

Bharat, who appeared via video link, said he “didn’t do wrong” when asked about his plea; his case is scheduled for a pre-trial conference on October 2.

Kannan was sentenced to 22 months’ jail on September 11 after pleading guilty to receiving sexual favours from six foreigners in exchange for assistance with visit pass applications.

Three additional charges were considered during sentencing; he had served as team leader of ICA’s Visit Pass Unit.

Court documents detail Kannan’s encounters with three men who came to Singapore to study between 2022 and 2023.

ICA said it would begin disciplinary proceedings against Kannan following his conviction and confirmed he is currently interdicted from service.

“Singapore adopts a strict zero-tolerance approach towards corruption,” CPIB said.

A person convicted of corruption may face up to five years in jail, a fine of up to S$100,000 (RM327,938), or both.