A Singapore court has charged a prominent property billionaire with obstructing justice and abetting offenses in connection with a high-profile government graft case involving a former transport minister. The 78-year-old owner of Hotel Properties Ltd, known for holding the rights to the Singapore Grand Prix Formula One race, is accused of providing valuable gifts to the ex-minister, who was recently sentenced to jail.
The case has captured significant attention in Singapore, a wealthy financial center known for its stringent measures against corruption. The former minister, who received a 12-month prison term, was found guilty of obstructing justice and accepting gifts improperly while serving as a public servant. The property billionaire, a key figure in the prosecution's case, has not yet responded to the allegations.
Following the announcement of the charges, Ong's firm, Hotel Properties, requested a trading halt. Prosecutors revealed during the trial that the ex-minister had received gifts exceeding $300,000, including tickets to prestigious sporting events and entertainment shows, as well as a private jet trip to Doha.
The charges against Ong include abetting the ex-minister in receiving valuables and obstructing justice. The court learned that the minister had requested Ong to bill him for the private jet trip after authorities seized the flight manifest in an unrelated investigation. The presiding judge described this action as a deliberate attempt to impede justice and avoid scrutiny.
The court hearing for Ong has been adjourned until pre-trial proceedings scheduled for November 15. The case underscores Singapore's commitment to upholding clean governance and holding individuals accountable for corrupt practices.
