MFA Spokesman’s Comments on the Case of Singaporean Boat Captain Shoo Chiau Haut, 20 January 2017

                    MFA is deeply concerned with the long-drawn judicial process related to Mr Shoo and his prolonged detention in Indonesia since 16 April 2016. 

                    Mr Shoo has been in detention for over nine months. He was originally charged for illegal fishing and trespassing and subsequently acquitted by the Tanjung Pinang Court on 11 July 2016. However, Mr Shoo remained in detention as new charges of immigration offences were filed by the Indonesian authorities on 5 October 2016.  On 17 January 2017, Mr Shoo was found guilty of immigration offences by the Tanjung Pinang Court, and fined 50 million rupiah, or a five-month prison sentence in lieu of the fine. However, we understand that Mr Shoo is not allowed to leave Indonesia even if he pays the fine, as there is the possibility of another round of new charges being brought against him by the Tanjung Pinang District Attorney’s Office, which could result in him being further detained and/or tried again in Indonesia.

                    MFA, including the Singapore Embassy in Jakarta and the Singapore Consulate in Batam, have been in close contact with the Indonesian authorities since Mr Shoo was first detained, to ensure that he is accorded his legal rights under Indonesian law.  The Singapore Government respects the laws and judicial process of Indonesia.  However, we are deeply concerned about the long-drawn judicial process related to Mr Shoo’s case, and his prolonged detention in the interim.  We will continue to reiterate to the relevant Indonesian authorities that Mr Shoo’s case be processed expeditiously, so that he can return to Singapore without unnecessary delay. Officers from MFA and the Singapore Consulate in Batam will also continue to render all necessary consular assistance to Mr Shoo and his family.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
20 JANUARY 2017