The Ministry of Health (MOH) reported a record-high 728 new confirmed Covid-19 cases on Thursday, April 16, at about 11pm.

But the "728" figure had been bandied about over various social media channels and private messaging apps throughout the day, from as early as nine hours earlier, with the source of the leak unclear.

Some social media platforms, according to Lianhe Zaobao, were even able to share details about the new cases that preceded MOH's official announcement.

In response to Mothership, the ministry said they are aware of the incident and have made a police report on this matter.

MOH also confirmed that police investigations into the leak are ongoing.

Previous arrests for government information leaks

Previously, a 37-year-old public servant and her 38-year-old husband were arrested for leaking a draft media release by the Ministry of Social and Family Development and Ministry of Education.

The 37-year-old allegedly took a screenshot of part of the press release draft and sent it to her husband, who subsequently shared it with his friends.

Under the Official Secrets Act, offenders face a fine of up to S$2,000 and up to two years' jail.

Unauthorised recipients of confidential information should not circulate it, as they may be similarly liable.

Top image by Sulaiman Daud