The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) revealed that visa applications sponsored by a Singapore travel agency for individuals with terrorism links were rejected. According to Channel News Asia, MHA stated that the couple associated with the travel agency will be deported and banned from re-entering Singapore.
The MHA shared that 38-year-old Iranian national Parvane Heidaridehkordi, one of the key figures in operating the travel agency, must leave Singapore by Feb 17 after her long-term visit pass was revoked. The ministry also mentioned that her husband, 65-year-old Malaysian national Soo Thean Ling, a Singapore permanent resident, is not currently in the country and has been declared a prohibited immigrant due to his association with Ms. Parvane.
The MHA clarified that although neither Ms. Parvane nor Mr. Soo were arrested, investigations did not find evidence of their involvement in other terrorism-related activities. The travel agency, which acted as a front for an operation directed by a foreigner based overseas, has since been deregistered by the authorities. The ministry did not disclose the name of the travel agency or further details of the investigation, citing “operational reasons.”
The case highlights the proactive measures taken by Singapore authorities to prevent potential security threats within the country and underscores the importance of stringent visa screening processes, especially for individuals with suspected terrorism links.
