Title: An Examination of the Inclusion of Singaporean Nationals in the US Department of Homeland Security’s “Worst of the Worst” List: A Case Study of Lim Seok Pheng
Title: An Examination of the Inclusion of Singaporean Nationals in the US Department of Homeland Security’s “Worst of the Worst” List: A Case Study of Lim Seok Pheng
Abstract: This paper examines the recent inclusi
Abstract: This paper examines the recent inclusion of Singaporean national Lim Seok Pheng in the US Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) list of “the worst of the worst criminal aliens” arrested by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The list, which now comprises 25,011 individuals, aims to identify and deport individuals who have committed serious crimes in the United States. This case study provides an in-depth analysis of the circumstances surrounding Lim’s inclusion on the list, including her suspected involvement in money laundering and her subsequent arrest and detention by ICE. The paper also explores the implications of Lim’s case for US-Singapore relations and the broader context of international cooperation on law enforcement and counter-terrorism efforts.
Introduction: The US Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) list of “the worst of the worst criminal aliens” is a database of individuals arrested by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and US Customs and Border Protection. The list, which was recently expanded to include 5,000 additional individuals, aims to identify and deport individuals who have committed serious crimes in the United States. On February 6, 2026, Singaporean national Lim Seok Pheng was added to the list, becoming the latest individual to be included in the database. This case study examines the circumstances surrounding Lim’s inclusion on the list and explores the implications of her case for US-Singapore relations and international cooperation on law enforcement and counter-terrorism efforts.
Background: Lim Seok Pheng, a 47-year-old Singaporean national, was arrested in May 2018 at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport on suspicion of money laundering. Following her arrest, Lim was detained by ICE and subsequently charged with violating US immigration laws. In December 2025, Lim applied for an S visa, a non-immigrant visa for informants, in an effort to remain in the United States and avoid deportation to Singapore. However, her application was rejected, and she was detained by ICE upon her release from a federal prison in Texas.
Analysis: Lim’s inclusion on the DHS list of “the worst of the worst criminal aliens” is significant, as it highlights the ongoing efforts of US law enforcement agencies to identify and deport individuals who have committed serious crimes in the United States. The list, which is publicly available, provides a valuable resource for law enforcement agencies and the public to identify and track individuals who pose a threat to national security and public safety. However, Lim’s case also raises important questions about the treatment of foreign nationals in the US justice system and the implications of their inclusion on the list for international relations.
Lim’s application for an S visa, which was rejected, highlights the complexities of the US immigration system and the challenges faced by foreign nationals who seek to cooperate with US law enforcement agencies. The S visa, which is designed for informants and individuals who provide critical information to US law enforcement agencies, is a valuable tool for building trust and cooperation between foreign nationals and US authorities. However, the rejection of Lim’s application suggests that the US government may be hesitant to provide protection to individuals who have been involved in criminal activity, even if they have provided valuable information to law enforcement agencies.
Implications: The inclusion of Lim Seok Pheng on the DHS list of “the worst of the worst criminal aliens” has significant implications for US-Singapore relations and international cooperation on law enforcement and counter-terrorism efforts. The case highlights the need for greater cooperation and coordination between US and Singaporean law enforcement agencies to address the global threat of money laundering and other transnational crimes. The case also underscores the importance of protecting the rights and dignity of foreign nationals in the US justice system, including those who have been accused of serious crimes.
Conclusion: The inclusion of Lim Seok Pheng on the DHS list of “the worst of the worst criminal aliens” is a significant development in the ongoing efforts of US law enforcement agencies to identify and deport individuals who have committed serious crimes in the United States. The case highlights the complexities of the US immigration system and the challenges faced by foreign nationals who seek to cooperate with US law enforcement agencies. As the US and Singapore continue to cooperate on law enforcement and counter-terrorism efforts, it is essential to prioritize the protection of human rights and the dignity of all individuals, including those who have been accused of serious crimes.
Recommendations: Based on the analysis of Lim’s case, several recommendations can be made to improve the treatment of foreign nationals in the US justice system and to enhance international cooperation on law enforcement and counter-terrorism efforts. These recommendations include:
Enhancing cooperation and coordination between US and Singaporean law enforcement agencies to address the global threat of money laundering and other transnational crimes.
Providing greater protection and support to foreign nationals who cooperate with US law enforcement agencies, including those who have been accused of serious crimes.
Ensuring that the rights and dignity of all individuals, including foreign nationals, are protected in the US justice system.
Reviewing and revising the S visa program to ensure that it is effective in building trust and cooperation between foreign nationals and US law enforcement agencies.