Asia/Pacific News
Singapore: Mass Flow Meter Magnet Gang Convicted
A nine-strong group involved in a mass flow meter (MFM) scam and comprising three ring leaders and six cargo officers have been convicted under the Computer Misuse Act, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore has said.
The gang used industrial strength magnets to distort the MFM readings on two bunker barges.
The magnet caused the MFM to register more fuel than was actually being delivered so that the saved fuel could be appropriated. In this way, $336,930 was netted by the gang.
The cargo officers were on a monthly commission while the fuel supplier paid the three running the scam.
The ring leaders -- Ang Heng Lye, Tay Tien Whui and Kek Kah Hui -- were sentenced to 35 months (Ang Heng Lye) and 34 months respectively. The six cargo officers received jail terms of between two weeks and 19 months.
"The authorities take a serious view of such criminal activities and will not hesitate to take firm action against those who commit offences that undermine Singapore's international reputation as a trusted shipping and bunkering hub," the MPA said.
MFM driver coils work via the magnetic induction of an electronic signal. Most MFM components including its casements are nonmagnetic. The magnet was attached by duct tape.
