Six individuals have been apprehended by the Singapore Police on suspicion of participating in illegal cyber activities. The group comprises five Chinese nationals and one Singaporean resident. Organized on September 9, 2024, the special operation involved approximately 160 law enforcement officers conducting raids at multiple locations simultaneously.
The suspects, aged between 32 and 42 years old, are believed to be linked to a global cybercrime syndicate. Upon carrying out searches, authorities confiscated electronic devices and substantial amounts of cash from the individuals. Notably, a 42-year-old Chinese national was found in possession of a laptop with access to web servers used by hacker organizations.
Furthermore, additional members of the group were found with equipment potentially intended for cyber attacks. For instance, three Chinese citizens possessed laptops containing personal data from foreign internet providers and specialized software like Plugx, commonly used in cyber criminal activities.
In total, the police seized seven laptops, 11 mobile phones, over 78,000 Singapore dollars, and cryptocurrency valued at around 850,000 US dollars from the suspects. Among those apprehended, a 38-year-old Chinese national attempted to purchase personal information believed to have been obtained through illegal means. Meanwhile, a 34-year-old Singaporean is suspected of aiding foreign hackers in their unlawful endeavors.
All six detainees have been charged with breaching the Computer Misuse Act of 1993, including allegations of unauthorized computer system access and possession of malicious software. A spokesperson for the Singapore Police indicated that the arrested group purportedly orchestrated cyber attacks on a global scale from within Singapore. Authorities emphasized their intolerance towards the misuse of the country for cyber transgressions.
This operation underscores the gravity of cybercrime in the contemporary era and underscores the resolve of law enforcement to combat malevolent technology users. Safeguarding data and preventing misuse are increasingly prominent priorities, with international collaboration and swift law enforcement responses playing pivotal roles in maintaining security.