Property tycoon and hotelier Ong Beng Seng has received court permission to leave Singapore for a work-related trip, amidst serious legal challenges he is currently facing. The 78-year-old businessman, known for his role in establishing the Formula One Singapore Grand Prix, will be travelling to London, Boston, Gibraltar, and Spain for medical treatment and business.
Court Ruling and Bail Conditions
On 30 October 2024, Ong appeared in court sporting a white shirt, accompanied by his lawyer, Mr Aaron Lee of Allen & Gledhill. He was granted a travel allowance on the condition he pays an additional cash bail of S$800,000, which raises his total bail to S$1.6 million. The prosecution had sought these extra conditions, reportedly without objection.
- Must provide a detailed travel itinerary to the investigating officer.
- Is required to check in regularly, keeping contactable at all times.
- Must surrender his passport within 24 hours of returning to Singapore.
Background of Legal Proceedings
Ong is currently facing charges under the Penal Code for his dealings with former Transport Minister S. Iswaran, particularly involving payments made to Singapore GP. The charges include:
- Abetment under Section 165, related to public servants receiving valuables.
- Abetting obstruction of justice under Section 204A.
He is alleged to have facilitated Iswaran’s receipt of travel benefits in December 2022. This included a private flight and hotel accommodations valued at over S$15,000, prompting legal scrutiny.
What’s Next for Ong?
Ong’s pre-trial conference is scheduled for 15 November 2024. If found guilty of the charges, he could face significant prison time and hefty fines.
As the case unfolds, it’s clear that Ong’s legacy and business standing hang in the balance. The former head of Singapore GP—famed for being the driving force behind Singapore’s first night race in 2008—now finds himself navigating troubled waters.