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Singapore to Deport Iranian-Malaysian Couple for Ties to Terror-Linked Travel Agency.
Published On Tue, 11 Feb 2025
kartik kumar
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Singapore has taken decisive action against an Iranian woman and her Malaysian husband after authorities discovered their involvement in a travel agency that had been facilitating visa applications for foreigners with suspected links to terrorism. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced that 38-year-old Parvane Heidaridehkordi, who was residing in Singapore on a long-term visit pass, was found to be engaging in activities that posed a threat to national security. As a result, her immigration status was revoked, and she was deemed an undesirable immigrant. Her husband, 65-year-old Soo Thean Ling, who held permanent resident status in Singapore, was also declared a prohibited immigrant due to his association with Parvane. Consequently, both individuals will be deported from Singapore and will be permanently barred from re-entering the country.
According to the MHA, investigations revealed that the travel agency operated by Parvane was not a legitimate business but rather a front for an operation directed by a foreign individual based overseas. The company played a significant role in sponsoring visa applications for individuals with links to terrorism, raising serious security concerns. Given the severity of the situation, Singaporean authorities promptly deregistered the travel agency and initiated strict legal action against those involved. The ministry emphasized that Parvane’s actions were directly detrimental to Singapore’s national security, justifying her deportation and lifetime ban from re-entry.
Further investigations also revealed that after authorities launched a probe into the travel agency, Soo Thean Ling made multiple attempts to register new businesses in Singapore, both of which were intended to operate as travel agencies. The MHA stated that Soos objective was to enable Parvane to continue managing travel businesses that could potentially facilitate the entry of terrorism-linked individuals into Singapore. However, recognizing the security risks associated with this, the authorities rejected both of Soo’s company registration applications on national security grounds.
The Singaporean government maintains a strict and unwavering stance on national security matters, particularly regarding foreign nationals who engage in activities that could endanger public safety. The MHA reiterated that foreigners who participate in or support operations that pose security threats will face immediate and severe consequences, including the revocation of their immigration rights and deportation. This case serves as a strong reminder of Singapore’s vigilance in monitoring and preventing activities that could undermine its security and stability. Authorities continue to work diligently to detect and counter any potential threats, reinforcing the country’s commitment to maintaining law and order.
Disclaimer: This Image is taken from CNA News.