SINGAPORE, Nov 7 — A Singaporean man allegedly involved in a Cambodian-based scam syndicate was deported from Vietnam and arrested by the Singapore Police Force (SPF) upon arrival at Changi Airport on Friday (November 6).

Lam Yong Yan, 27, had been detained by Vietnam’s Ministry of Public Security for immigration offences since November 19, 2025.

He was deported from the country on Friday after investigations were completed.

Lam is believed to be a member of the crime ring dismantled by the SPF and Cambodian police in September 2025, which orchestrated Government official impersonation scams targeted at fellow Singaporeans.

Police said at least 528 victims collectively lost about S$53 million (RM168 million).

The man will be charged in court on Saturday with facilitating the commission of a serious offence, in furtherance of the illegal purpose of a locally linked organised criminal group.

He faces a jail term of up to five years, a fine of up to S$100,000 (RM317,000), or both, if found guilty.

Lam is among the 36 people sought by local police.

A total of 23 Singaporeans and six Malaysians are still on the run.

Director of the Criminal Investigation Department Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police Julius Lim said on Friday that Singapore deeply appreciates the support and close co-operation of Vietnam’s Ministry of Public Security in securing Lam’s return.

“Those who prey on victims in Singapore should know that crossing borders does not put them beyond the reach of the law,” he stated.

“The SPF will work with our international partners to hold them accountable, however far they go.”

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of the remaining suspects should call the SPF hotline at 1800-255-0000, or +65 6255 0000 for overseas callers, or submit information online at www.police.gov.sgi-witness.

All information received will be kept confidential. — AsiaOne