375. Record of evidence in absence of accused

If it is proved that an accused person has absented himself so that there is no immediate prospect of arresting him, the court competent to try that person or commit him for trial for the offence complained of may, in his absence, examine the witnesses, if any, produced on behalf of the prosecution and record their depositions.

Any such deposition may, on the arrest of such person, be given in evidence against him on the inquiry into or trial for the offence with which he is charged, if the deponent is dead or incapable of giving evidence or his attendance cannot be procured without an amount of delay, expense or inconvenience which under the circumstances of the case would be unreasonable.

If it appears that an offence punishable with death or with imprisonment for life has been committed by some person or persons unknown a Magistrate’s Court may hold an inquiry and examine any witnesses who can give evidence concerning the offence. Any depositions so taken may be given in evidence against any person who is subsequently accused of the offence if the deponent is dead or incapable of giving evidence or is beyond the limits of Singapore.[374