A dark cloud hangs over the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) following the arrest of Kannan Morice Rajagopal Jayaram, a 53-year-old inspector facing six counts of corruption. The charges stem from shocking allegations that Kannan leveraged his position to exploit vulnerable individuals seeking short-term visit passes in Singapore.
As reported by The Straits Times, between 2022 and February 2023, Kannan is accused of requesting and obtaining sexual favors from six men in exchange for facilitating their visa applications. This blatant abuse of power not only undermines the integrity of the ICA but also raises serious concerns about potential vulnerabilities within the immigration system.
Today, District Judge Brenda Tan acknowledged the prosecution’s readiness to accept a guilty plea, highlighting the gravity of the accusations. Kannan’s defense lawyer, Tan Wei Chieh, requested time to consult with his client before proceeding. Currently released on S$30,000 bail, Kannan is due to appear in court again on Jan. 11, 2024.
Upon receiving information about Kannan’s alleged misconduct, the ICA immediately reported him to the relevant authorities and interdicted him from service in April 2023.
In a statement, the ICA emphasized its commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. The bureau stressed that any officer found to have broken the law will face the full consequences.
If convicted, Kannan faces a potential fine of up to S$100,000 and five years imprisonment for each offense.
While the full details of this case remain under investigation, the initial allegations paint a disturbing picture of abuse of power and potential exploitation. The ICA’s response and the ongoing investigations are crucial steps towards ensuring justice and restoring public confidence in the crucial functions of the authority.
