The number of foreigners entering Singapore illegally and staying on without papers fell to an 11-year low last year but ICA is concerned that the creativity of smugglers might be used by terrorists to smuggle arms and explosives. SMU Assistant Professor of Law Eugene Tan, who studied social and immigration issues said that given Singapore's role as a major trans-shipment hub with significant tourist arrivals and movement of people between Singapore and Malaysia through the Causeway, the figures were to some extent impressive and the greater vigilance and security post-Sept 11 had made it harder for immigration offenders and contraband to be brought in. While authorities tried to look out for terrorists or items that could be used in terrorist plots, there's the incidental effect of picking up the minor transgressions as well.
The Jakarta Globe