Ex-SAF Captain Jailed 21 Months for S$86,750 Fraud and Vaping Offences

Benjamin Song Yong Pang, 38, a former Singapore Armed Forces captain, was jailed for 21 months and two weeks on July 29 after admitting to defrauding five colleagues of S$86,750 and multiple vaping offences. Song, who served as a deputy cluster commander at a supply base, also received a S$6,000 fine and has made full restitution to his victims. The case reveals how he exploited his rank to normalise vaping in the workplace and coerce subordinates into procuring vape products.

How the fraud unfolded over three years

Between May 2021 and March 2024, Song deceived five colleagues on more than 39 separate occasions. He claimed he would invest their money or needed funds for his mother’s medical bills. Each victim lost between S$10,000 and S$27,050. Song’s actions stemmed from significant credit card debt accumulated between 2011 and 2018 through visits to Thai clubs and karaoke lounges while serving in the military.

Vaping and abuse of authority

Song openly vaped in his office at Nee Soon Camp from late 2021 onwards. Investigations found his conduct created a culture where vaping was normalised among subordinates. The Health Sciences Authority confirmed Song recruited three subordinates to procure and pass vape products to him on multiple occasions. One subordinate admitted he assisted Song because he was afraid to refuse a superior officer. Song also introduced a female colleague to vaping by giving her a device and vape pods.

Court outcome and restitution

Song pleaded guilty to five cheating charges and four vape-related charges, including possession of vaping devices. He has since made full restitution to his victims, many of whom were his subordinates. The 21-month and two-week sentence, combined with the S$6,000 fine, reflects the severity of exploiting military rank for personal financial gain and normalising prohibited conduct in a disciplined force.

Final Thoughts

The case underscores how abuse of authority within the military can compromise unit cohesion and discipline. Song’s full restitution mitigates financial harm, but the sentence sends a clear message that rank cannot shield officers from accountability for fraud and misconduct.

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