Singapore seeks extradition over criminal charges, with judicial proceedings now underway in the UK.
SINGAPORE – Former Reform Party chairman and fugitive lawyer Charles Yeo Yao Hui, who fled Singapore in July 2022 while on bail, was arrested in the United Kingdom on November 4. The arrest follows Singapore’s extradition request in October 2023.
Details of the Case
The extradition request stems from a charge of abetment of cheating involving funds released to Yeo’s law firm, alleged to be part of a settlement for a client’s claim. The UK Crown Prosecution Service is managing the case under UK extradition laws.
In a statement on November 13, the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) confirmed:
“The matter is now before the UK courts… it would not be appropriate for us to comment on the matter.”
Timeline of Events
January 2022: Yeo, then 31, faced six charges, including wounding the religious feelings of the Christian community and making abusive remarks about a police officer on Instagram.
July 2022: Granted bail and permitted to travel to Vietnam for trial-related matters, Yeo failed to return as required. His mother acted as his bailor.
October 2023: Singapore submitted the extradition request to UK authorities.
November 4, 2024: Yeo was apprehended in the UK.
Charges Against Yeo
Yeo’s alleged offences occurred between November 2020 and February 2021, including:
Offensive social media posts targeting the Christian community.
Abusive online remarks against a police officer.
Current Status
The extradition process is now in the hands of the UK judiciary. No further comments were made by Singaporean authorities due to the ongoing judicial proceedings.
This development marks a significant step in Singapore’s efforts to ensure accountability for individuals who evade justice.
