Ex-Certis officers jailed for obstructing vape probe

Two former Certis CISCO auxiliary police officers received one-week jail sentences for obstructing justice in a Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) probe concerning e-vaporizers and contraband cigarettes.

Tan Wee Keong, 38, and Reggie Choo Beng Kwang, 33, both pleaded guilty to charges of revealing information about the CPIB investigation and advising the other to dispose of evidence. Choo also admitted to deleting a WhatsApp conversation with Tan, which was considered during sentencing.

Tan, who was an assistant enforcement supervisor deployed to the Health Sciences Authority's Tobacco Regulation Branch, learned Choo used vapes. After being interviewed by CPIB and instructed not to discuss the investigation, Tan contacted Choo, warning him that his name had surfaced and advising him to throw away his vape and pods. Choo subsequently disposed of at least one e-vaporizer and three packs of pods.

Prosecutors argued that jail time was warranted for both men, highlighting Tan's role as a law enforcement officer who attempted to cover up an offense. The court noted that Tan's actions showed premeditation, as he was aware he should not discuss the investigation details. Choo's disposal of potential evidence also demonstrated a degree of planning.

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The accused knew that he was not supposed to discuss the details of the investigations, both as a law enforcement officer himself and because he was told directly by CPIB and had agreed not to do so. However, he proceeded to do so – this cannot be spontaneous and evinces a degree of premeditation.