Singaporean jailed for lying about $8.3m luxury cars in nation’s biggest money laundering case
A 42-year-old Singaporean has been sentenced to jail for concealing luxury assets linked to fugitive Su Binghai, a central figure in Singapore’s $3 billion money laundering case. The deception delayed critical investigations and highlighted the far-reaching impact of the syndicate’s network.
The $3 Billion Scandal Unfolds
On August 15, 2023, Singapore authorities launched coordinated raids across the island, arresting 10 foreign nationals involved in one of the country’s largest money laundering cases. Among them was Su Binghai, who managed to flee with the help of his personal driver, Liew Yik Kit. Su escaped via Tuas Checkpoint before flying out of Kuala Lumpur two days later. The same day, he entrusted Liew with four luxury vehicles worth over S$8.3 million: a Rolls-Royce Phantom, Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Ferrari F8 Spider, and Ferrari Stradale.
A Greedy Gamble
Hoping to earn a 1% commission—approximately S$80,000—Liew began moving the cars without securing a buyer. On August 18, he relocated the vehicles to a multi-storey carpark at Upper Boon Keng Road. Later, on September 1, he shifted them to Roxy Square, collaborating with car dealership Pro Carz to facilitate their sale.
When summoned by police on September 11, Liew lied, claiming Su left behind no assets. Fearing exposure, he returned the cars to Upper Boon Keng. His actions obstructed investigations and delayed the recovery of critical evidence.
How the Truth Emerged
The truth unraveled on October 5, when police were tipped off about a blue Rolls-Royce parked at Roxy Square, managed by Su’s brother. Further checks revealed Pro Carz had applied for parking permits for the four missing vehicles. The dealership confirmed Liew was in possession of them, leading to his arrest the same day.
Legal Consequences and Asset Surrender
Deputy Public Prosecutor Louis Ngia described Liew’s actions as driven by “greed,” noting the police had to expend “significant effort” to recover the vehicles almost a month later. Liew pleaded guilty to providing false information and had another charge of obstructing justice considered during sentencing. On June 30, 2025, he was sentenced to three months’ jail.
Meanwhile, Su Binghai and his wife Wang Manzu surrendered S$316.6 million worth of assets in October 2024, including the four cars. They were among 15 fugitives who relinquished S$1.85 billion in total assets in exchange for removal from Interpol’s watchlists.
Broader Implications
Singapore’s billion-dollar money laundering case has brought to light the sophistication of transnational crime. Liew’s sentence marks the first for a Singaporean linked to the scandal, underlining the legal risks of aiding fugitives. The case also highlights how greed and deception can obstruct justice, even in a country renowned for financial integrity.
This high-profile case underscores the seriousness with which Singapore treats financial crimes and asset concealment. The sentencing of Liew Yik Kit sends a strong signal across the region, including Indonesia, that collaboration with fugitives—no matter how minor the role—will not go unpunished. It also shows that even indirect involvement in money laundering networks can result in lasting legal consequences.
Sources: Straits Times (2025) , CNA (2025)
Keywords: Su Binghai, Liew Yik Kit, Money Laundering Case, Singapore Police, Rolls-Royce, Ferrari
