Only malicious complainants will be taken to task: CPIB

We thank Mr Francis Cheng for his letter “CPIB rules of reporting may frighten away whistle-blowers” (April 7). The Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) appreciates all feedback and works with the public to safeguard Singapore’s integrity.

With regard to his feedback that our website message may deter informers from reporting suspected corruption, we take this opportunity to clarify the relevant provisions under the Prevention of Corruption Act (PCA).

There are provisions that safeguard the identity of informers whose information lead to the investigation and prosecution of any offences under the Act. The PCA also guards against malicious complaints whereby the complainant can be prosecuted for knowingly giving or causing to be given any false or misleading information to the CPIB. These incidents, however, are few.

On the other hand, a complainant who had provided information that was verified subsequently to be inaccurate, but had done so with no malicious intent, would not be taken to task.

Singapore adopts a zero-tolerance approach towards corruption.

The CPIB takes a serious view of all complaints or information that may disclose any offence under the PCA, and continues to combat corruption through swift and sure, firm but fair action.

All complaints, including anonymous ones, will be evaluated carefully to ascertain whether a criminal investigation under the Act is warranted.

The CPIB strongly encourages members of the public to report suspected graft. Based on our experience last year, complaints lodged in person are three times more likely to result in investigation compared with the most popular mode of letters or fax.