The moment the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) launched its probe into the former chiefs of the Singapore Civil Defence Force and Central Narcotics Bureau, Peter Lim and Ng Boon Gay, the duo were "removed from positions of responsibility and any ability to influence the outcome of investigations", said Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean yesterday.
Mr Teo, who is also Home Affairs Minister, said the two were put on leave once CPIB decided they should be placed under arrest and they were told not to return to the office or exercise their official duties.
"When the CPIB informed us that there was sufficient basis to consider commencing civil service disciplinary proceedings, then we took the steps to interdict them," he said. "So, clearly there is no ability for them to have influenced the proceedings of investigations due to their positions of office."
Mr Teo also stressed there was no delay in announcing the probe, noting the lag between the arrests and announcement was necessary to give investigators time to gather evidence, seize documents and conduct interviews with those who were connected to the case.
The CPIB informed his ministry on Jan 20 that there was sufficient basis to consider civil service disciplinary action against the duo for misconduct, said Mr Teo.
Four days later, the officers were served notices of interdiction. The announcement was brought forward by a day after the media broke the story.
Mr Teo said his ministry will investigate possible leaks to the media, particularly if official information which should not have been revealed was released.
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