A Major Crackdown on Illegal Rentals

In a stunning revelation, the mastermind behind an underground operation that rented out 31 private homes illegally has been slapped with a staggering fine of $1,144,902. Robin Koh Guohui, 41, orchestrated the operation from July 2018 to November 2021, employing four accomplices who received monthly salaries to assist in this unauthorized venture.

The Accomplices Face the Music

Koh wasn't alone in this scheme. His accomplices—Pandy Lim En Xiang (33), Chew Lam Yong (61), Low Ah Tee (81), and Chua Lian Beng (71)—have also been penalized. They each received fines ranging from $8,000 to $32,500 and will face their sentences between August 2024 and March 2025.

How the Scheme Worked

Koh, who previously led a company called SG Auto Car—renamed SG Bizloan Consultant in 2021—was found to be the main director overseeing the illicit operation. His associates were also listed as directors for various companies, enabling them to sign dubious tenancy agreements on his behalf.

Koh exploited popular online accommodation platforms like Airbnb and HomeAway, subletting properties for stays shorter than the legally mandated three months. Payments from these guests were funneled directly to him, utilizing multiple bank accounts and aliases to mask the operation.

How Authorities Caught On

The operation unraveled after residents reported suspicious short-term rentals in a private development linked to one of Koh's companies, Edrich Group. Investigations revealed the scale of the illegal rentals, prompting a swift response from the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA).

Why the Law Matters

Singapore’s regulations dictate a minimum rental duration of three consecutive months to prevent high turnover of tenants, which threatens the residential community’s stability. URA’s development control group director, Martin Tan, emphasized the seriousness of the offense and stated, "We will aggressively pursue and prosecute those involved in unauthorized short-term accommodations, sending a strong message that such activities will not be tolerated."