K Shanmugam
Singapore
“Bank accounts are frozen when there is reason to suspect that the bank accounts are involved in illicit activities, including money laundering activities.”
“The Singapore Police Force does not track the requested data. Distinguishing artificial intelligence (AI)-generated content typically requires more detailed forensic examination which may not be necessary in every investigation and may also not be conclusive as to whether AI-generative tools were used.”
“The Building and Construction Authority’s Code on Accessibility provides baseline requirements for accessible and inclusive buildings. It stipulates a minimum width of 1.5 metres or 1.8 metres for primary accessible routes, depending on the building type.”
“The Road Traffic (Motor Vehicles, Driving Licence) Rules under the Road Traffic Act set out the scope of the medical assessment required for motorists aged 65 and above who wish to retain their driving licences.”
“When a Police report has been made, the Police will investigate to determine if a criminal offence has been committed. If there is reasonable suspicion that a case is scam-related, the Police can direct online service providers to restrict Singapore users' access to the relevant online activity under the Online Criminal Harms Act.”
“Through intelligence sharing and coordinated enforcement actions, the cross-border operation disrupted a transnational drug trafficking syndicate and downstream drug trafficking activities, with the UK arresting seven persons so far and further investigations underway.”
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“This question was addressed in the reply to Question No 6 for Oral Answer on the Order Paper for 7 November 2023. [Please refer to "Cases Undertaken by Public Defender's Office", Official Report, 07 November 2023, Vol 95, Issue 116, Oral Answers to Questions section.]”
“The ratio of Full-time National Servicemen in the Singapore Police Force (SPF) to the local population since 2018 is in Table 1 below. The total number of Volunteer Special Constabulary (VSC) officers and VSC (Community) officers recruited each year since 2018 is in Table 2 below. The VSC (Community) vocation was launched in 2018 to create more opportunities for the public to join the VSC. They patrol in areas with high commuter traffic, facilitate crowd control and traffic management, carry out engagement at events and roadshows and assist with evacuation during an incident.”
“We have therefore been engaging these platforms to implement safeguards, such as implementing user verification processes to ensure that accounts are legitimate. We would like to work with other countries to collectively engage these online platforms. Third, we continue to engage our foreign counterparts to exchange information on the latest scam variants and strategies to combat scams and learn from one another's experiences. In short, this transnational scourge is not something we can tackle alone. We need not just the cooperation of the public and the private sector, but need to work together across jurisdictions too.”
“The Ministry of Home Affairs has been engaging our foreign counterparts both bilaterally and in multilateral fora to cooperate in the fight against scams. These include the ASEAN Ministerial and Senior Officials Meetings on Transnational Crime, the ASEAN Senior Officials Roundtable on Cybercrime, the Global Anti-Scam Summit which took place recently in Lisbon, the Financial Action Task Force and INTERPOL. We have three areas of interest. First, to enhance cross-border enforcement and asset recovery. The vast majority of scams are perpetrated by scammers based outside Singapore. These scammers run sophisticated operations with extensive networks and are adept at using technology to swiftly move funds, often across jurisdictions, to evade detection by the authorities. Our ability to solve scam cases and recover scammed monies depends very much on the level of cooperation provided by overseas law enforcement agencies, as well as their ability to stop the dissipation of the monies. In this last regard, we have been sharing with our foreign counterparts, the operational model of the Singapore Police Force's Anti-Scam Command, where law enforcement officers and bank staff are co-located. We encourage other countries to develop similar capabilities to seize funds quickly, so as to enhance our collective ability to recover scam proceeds. Second, we want industry stakeholders to implement more upstream measures to protect their users and collaborate with law enforcement agencies. In particular, we have observed that scammers are increasingly leveraging social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, and messaging apps, such as WhatsApp and Telegram, to conduct their operations.”
“Second, firefighting training at the Civil Defence Academy (CDA) is conducted with ‘live' fire simulators to provide realism so that trainees, regardless whether they are Regulars or NSFs, can gain relevant experience operating in conditions that closely resemble real fires. The training curriculum is reviewed regularly to ensure currency and robustness. Even after graduation from CDA, training continues to be an integral part of a firefighter's daily routine. They undergo exercises and drills during each shift to familiarise themselves with their respective roles and functions, as well as to maintain individual fitness and other competencies. Annual proficiency tests are conducted by CDA to ensure that their skills and fitness levels continue to meet the required standards. The safety of all SCDF personnel, whether they are Regulars, NSFs, NSmen or Volunteers, is of paramount importance to us. We will continue to make sure that they are well-trained and properly equipped to carry out their duties, safely and effectively.”
“The wider deployment of BWCs will enhance the quality of post-incident AARs. By mid-2024, when the camera is capable of livestreaming to the SCDF Operations Centre, it will also enhance sensemaking during ongoing incidents. A new generation of breathing apparatus with telemetry capabilities will be progressively deployed from mid-2024. This project was initiated two years ago, and has been in development. When introduced in 2024, it will enable transmission of the data of the air capacity remaining in a firefighter's breathing apparatus to the BACO control point for monitoring. This next-generation breathing apparatus will also come with a Personnel Distress Device (PDD) that is automatically activated once the air tank is turned on, as compared to the existing PDD, which must be manually turned on by the firefighter. With the new PDD, after a period when the firefighter is motionless, the PDD will automatically trigger an alert to the BACO control point, so that officers there can make appropriate interventions. Enhancements to the selection process for ground commanders. The SCDF is also conducting a comprehensive review of the training of ground commanders, including enhancements to the training syllabus to underline the importance of command responsibility and introducing exercises to stress-test the command-and-control capabilities of the commanders. Mr Murali also asked about the deployment of Full-time National Servicemen (NSFs), in particular, as firefighters and how we ensure their safety. First, only NSFs who are certified to be medically fit and are of Physical Employment Status ‘A’, ‘B1’ or ‘B2’, will be deployed as firefighters.”
“Following the incident on 8 December 2022, SCDF convened an Internal Review Group (IRG) to conduct a detailed After-Action Review (AAR) into the firefighting operation that day. The AAR covered SCDF's firefighting procedures, operational safety, equipping and training. As part of the AAR, the IRG also audited over 260 firefighting operations in 2021 and 2022, where at least one firefighting water jet was deployed. The aim was to assess whether the operations were conducted professionally and safely and whether adequate command and control was exercised by the commanders on the ground. The IRG further scrutinised 61 of these cases that required more than two firefighting water jets, that is, more challenging incidents. The audit found that while the operations had largely been conducted competently and safely, there were occasional individual lapses such as officers not wearing their Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) properly, or not using the Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) during damping down operations. The IRG made recommendations to improve operational safety as well as command-and-control. Establishing a Staging and Breathing Apparatus Control Officer (BACO) control point for all residential unit fires has been implemented since 18 September 2023. The control point helps ground commanders to track the deployment of firefighters, as well as to check on the PPE of the teams before they are sent into the scene of the fire. Previously, this control point was only established for major fire incidents. Issuance of Body Worn Cameras (BWCs) to all Section Commanders, which will be achieved by March 2024. Currently, only officers who are holding the appointment of Deputy Rota Commander and higher are issued with BWCs.”
“We have considered what the Member suggested. However, it is not practical to prescribe fixed timelines by which the Police must complete investigations. The time the Police require for investigations depends on many factors, including the nature of the offence and the complexity of the case. It is more important that they undertake robust investigations, as long or as short a time as they may need, to get to the truth of the case. That said, for cases where the accused persons are remanded, the Police closely monitor investigation timelines and processes and expedite investigations to the extent feasible. Where appropriate, we have also used technology to try to reduce the number of accused persons who have to be remanded in the first place, for example, through the use of electronic tagging to mitigate flight risks, instead of objecting to bail. We have also taken steps to make it easier for accused persons to meet bail conditions, for example, in certain cases, releasing on reduced bail quantum if the accused is on electronic tagging. We are also considering amending the law to allow personal bonds in more cases. It is, however, a fact that our Police investigators are increasingly overworked. In particular, in the last few years, there has been an exponential rise in the number of scam and cybercrime cases and in the number of people arrested for such cases. We have been working to get approval for more manpower resources for them so that their tempo of work is more sustainable, and with more investigators, cases may move faster too.”
“I can look it up. If the Member files a question, I can look it up and say how many cases did not qualify under the means or merits test. If I am not wrong, I think I have given the numbers that we will build up to. This year, we have about 25 officers or so, plus minus, and we can build up as necessary. We have budgeted for building up.”
“If the number of cases go up, we will employ more people. Or if we cannot, we will explain that this is our capacity and this is what we are prepared to spend. Then, it is up to Parliament to say, "We think you ought to spend more of taxpayers' money." We will come and discuss that, as necessary. In terms of the data on the types of cases which have been rejected, what I can say to the Member is that, they have been rejected not because of capacity but because they do not meet our means or merits test. If the Member wants more data on that, she can file a question and we will look it up and answer it. But no case has been turned away because we said we do not have the capacity.”
“On the capacity, it is chicken and egg. I mean, it depends on how many cases come up. At present, there is a certain pathway where PDO is intended to build up from last year, based on our assessment of the number of cases that are likely to come up, bearing in mind that we really do not want to go in to territory where lawyers are providing services. We want to meet the demand, where the clients today, either by themselves or through their family, are unable to pay for lawyers to represent them. Because this is taxpayers' money and it has got to be used judiciously. I have made that point before several times. There are a number of countries which have gone down this route and then find that they are unable to afford it. If people can afford it, they should go and pay for it. Precisely how many cases we will take up, it is subject to how many cases apply. Today, we are not beyond our capacity and we will build up a little bit more as the case load increases. It is a balance between the well-known manpower shortage all across Singapore, including in the legal industry. The fact is that, as a result of our new approach taken a few years ago to drugs, where we no longer prosecute a drug abuser as a criminal, but send such a person to rehabilitation, that has removed a lot of cases from the criminal justice system. Because these people are now in rehabilitation and then, they are released. Even if they come back for the third time or a fourth time, as long as they only abuse drugs and they have not committed any other offence, they are no longer charged. So, the number of criminal cases have come down quite substantially. We are a low-crime society. Crimes like these have been redefined as we take a rehabilitation approach. With all that, we will look at it.”
“I think the answer to that is: it is a situation faced by all lawyers who practise. What do you think is the right defence or the right case to put forward? What is relevant? What is not relevant? These are assessments and it depends on training and skill. By and large, the Legal Service gets very good officers who apply to join. PDO gets very committed officers and it depends on training. I think the whole approach for PDO officers and AGC officers, the prosecution: you do your duty without fear or favour.”
“Thank you, Sir. I would say the framework of the law is clear. What you can ask, what you cannot ask in cross-examination, lawyers will know. The PDO is led by a very senior lawyer who will give guidance to the more junior lawyers. And ultimately in Court, there is the prosecution and there is the Court, which controls proceedings. I think the line to be crossed in terms of misconduct, is quite far; there are a number of safeguards. I do not believe that our PDO officers feel that they have to pull back from proper questioning, or be particularly concerned that questions they ask will be considered beyond the pale, in terms of correct and proper discharge of a lawyer's duties in court. But, in any event, I will pass on the Member's feedback to the Chief Public Defender.”
“In another case in New Zealand, a family of five was mass murdered, and David Bain, who was the only survivor, was accused of the murder. There were mixed views over his innocence. This case has been described as, and I quote, "the most widely discussed and divisive in New Zealand's criminal history". After 13 years, he was acquitted of all charges. Without legal aid, he might have remained behind bars until today. As I explained in my Ministerial Statement in April last year, the provision of legal aid cannot depend on public outrage against the alleged offender or sympathy for the victim. With the PDO, we will assess each case based on its own merit, and those who have a meritorious case but cannot afford a lawyer will be provided access to legal advice and representation to defend their case in court. This is how we can try to ensure that access to justice is available to more.”
“Sometimes, the PDO comes across cases, which many would consider to be highly represensible. It can relate to sexual assault, child abuse or family violence. The nature of the crime can cause public outrage or concern. But the PDO cannot refuse to handle these cases. That is not the test. The test is not one of moral reprehensibility. The test is whether the person qualifies under the means test and the merits test. It has to handle the cases, as long as they are assessed to have some legal merit. One example is a recent Court of Appeal matter involving an accused person who pleaded guilty to sexually penetrating his own younger sister. I think almost all right-thinking members of society would say that it is completely unacceptable, reprehensible. He had committed the offences when he was between the age of 15 and 17 years. He was initially sentenced to 18 years in prison and 16 strokes of the cane. He applied to PDO for aid to appeal against his sentence. Aid was granted as he had fulfilled the means test criteria and PDO assessed that there was merit to the appeal on the ground that the sentence given by the lower Court was excessive. The Court of Appeal agreed and his sentence was reduced by two years. This scenario sometimes arises in other jurisdictions as well. You have the case of Police Constable Andrew Harper in the United Kingdom. A uniformed officer gave chase to a group of teenagers who were trying to escape after stealing a bike. He was dragged by the car which was driven by one of the teenagers and he died. There was widespread public sympathy for him and outrage over the fact that he died. The three teenagers received legal aid. The Court found them guilty of manslaughter instead of murder.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, my reply will also address written Question No 10 in the Order Paper for today’s Sitting. The Public Defender’s Office (PDO) was set up in December of 2022. So, we are now about 12 months into it. It is to provide criminal defence aid to persons facing non-capital charges and who cannot afford a lawyer. As of September 2023, the PDO has taken up 303 cases from applicants and has taken these to Court. Eligible applicants receive representation from either the PDO or the Criminal Legal Aid Scheme (CLAS). With this co-delivery model, CLAS’ annual case load in 2023 is expected to be lower than in 2022. Nonetheless, this has only been nine to 10 months, and we have to continue to monitor the situation. Some of the applicants for criminal defence aid face charges for minor offences, like shop theft, mischief and so on. But some others face more serious, non-capital charges – unlicensed moneylending, drug trafficking or sexual assault against vulnerable victims and so on. We have to ensure that aid is rendered to those who are deserving and each application for criminal defence aid is subjected to means and merits tests. The means test, in terms of economic means; and the merits test, in terms of having some basis for defence. The precise framework is set out. I am not seeking to set that out; I am using short-hand terms here. These assessments are not based on the nature of the alleged offences or the moral reprehensibility of the applicant. The means test, as I said earlier, is to ensure that aid is given to those who are unable to afford legal fees. The merits test assesses whether the applicant will benefit from legal representation or has reasonable grounds to defend or appeal his case in Court.”
“Yes, okay. Not just for transgender persons but all inmates – there is an approach as part of the rehabilitation process – where counsellors are available, and prisoners are interviewed regularly and spoken with, and where inmates are able to raise the issues they have and they will be considered. Of course, not all requests and concerns would be considered as legitimate. Legitimate issues would be dealt with.”
“I thank the Member for the supplementary questions. On the first, if he wants specific data, he can file a question and we can answer. In general, the level of violence in our Prisons is very low, both because of pre-emptive measures and the discipline in the Prisons – fairly tight control is exercised. So, I would be surprised if there were many such instances. But if he wants specific data, he can file it. It is certainly not something that has come up in a serious way as an issue for a policy decision. And Members can see how we take an approach which is slightly different from the approach, for example, in the Isla Bryson's case. I would say ours is a very practical approach. On the second question, if you can remind me.”
“So, in such cases, we may house them alone in individual cells within the institution of their registered sex, or in a shared cell with other inmates who are in the same situation. There may also be situations where inmates, during medical examination upon admission, are found to have external genitalia different from their registered sex. In such cases, Prisons may first house them alone in individual cells in the institution of their registered sex. Prisons will then facilitate an examination by a medical specialist to assess if they have had a complete physical change in genitalia, and if so, will assist the inmate to update their registered sex with the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). This follows ICA’s requirements that a person’s sex change must first be verified by a local relevant medical specialist before ICA updates the registered sex of the person in its database.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the case that Mr Murali refers to involved a Scottish male sex offender called Isla Bryson. Isla Bryson was undergoing hormonal treatment at the time of his conviction to transition to a female. In January of this year, 2023, Bryson was convicted of raping two women. At the time of conviction, Bryson’s self-identified gender was female. However, his registered sex was male and he still had male genitalia. Bryson was remanded in a women’s prison while awaiting his sentence. That was done based on the Scottish Prison Services' policy, which determines housing arrangements based on an inmate's "new gender". The prospect of a convicted male rapist serving a sentence in a women's prison sparked public debate and concerns about the safety of the other prisoners. In response, Bryson was moved to a male prison facility. In Singapore, our primary consideration is the safety of the inmates. As a rule, inmates are housed in a male or female institution based on their registered sex, and not their self-identified gender. There may be situations, however, where it may be better not to house an inmate with other inmates of their registered sex for consideration of safety, either for the safety of the inmate or the safety of the other inmates. For example, for a male inmate who is transitioning and who has developed female features, such as breasts, it may not be completely safe for this inmate to be housed together with other male inmates. On the other hand, inmates in a female institution may not feel comfortable if we house with them, a former male who has just completed transitioning to be a female, especially if, like in the case of Bryson, the person had previously committed sexual offences.”
“This question was addressed in Minister of State for Home Affairs, Assoc Prof Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim’s speech during the Motion on the Israel-Hamas Conflict, at the Sitting on 6 November 2023. [Please refer to "Solidarity, Security and Peace – The Israel-Hamas Conflict", Official Report, 6 November 2023, Vol 95, Issue 115, Motions section.]”
“The yearly attrition rate of paramedic officers and paramedic specialists in the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) from 2016 to 2022 is shown in Table 1 below. SCDF paramedics belong to the Home Affairs Uniformed Services (HUS). The HUS compensation package is regularly reviewed to ensure that it remains market-competitive. The latest review was in January 2023, where the officers received a salary adjustment of between 3% and 8%. Since 2019, HUS officers have been receiving strategic payments at specific milestones in their career in the Home Team as part of the remuneration package.”
“A Commemorative Birth Certificate (CBC) includes the name of a stillborn child for remembrance purposes. As the decision on whether to name a stillborn child is a very personal and sensitive one, CBCs are issued only upon request. As maternity hospitals are the main touchpoints for the parents, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has liaised with the hospitals to inform affected parents of the option of obtaining a CBC. ICA has also published the information on its website.”
“Since 7 October 2023, the Police have not received any Police permit applications for public assemblies related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The National Parks Board (NParks) has received eight applications to use the Speakers’ Corner for such events. The Police assess applications to hold public assemblies on a case-by-case basis. Some factors that they consider include whether the event poses public order or safety and security concerns. In addition, permits are not granted to non-Singaporeans, including non-Singapore entities, if the event is for political purposes or for election campaigning. Those intending to use the Speakers’ Corner can refer to the Public Order (Unrestricted Area – Speakers’ Corner) Order 2023 and NParks’ Terms and Conditions, which can be found on its website. Applications to hold events related to the Israel-Hamas conflict had been turned down for public safety and security reasons.”
“The ratio of regular Police officers in the Singapore Police Force to the total population and the turnover rate from 2020 to 2022 is listed in Table 1 below.”
“The position has been made clear several times, including in this House and during the Committee of Supply debates in 2016. [Please refer to "Committee of Supply – Head P (Ministry of Home Affairs)", Official Report, 6 April 2016, Vol 94, Issue 13, Budget section.]”
“The Police do not track the number of cases of confrontation between motorists and cyclists.”
“The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) does not collect data of travellers who have issues with their biometrics during immigration clearance. Since 2020, ICA has implemented the Multi-Modal Biometrics System (MMBS). With MMBS, facial and iris images have replaced fingerprints as the main biometrics to identify travellers during immigration clearance. This addresses difficulties faced by some travellers, especially the elderly, who have aged, scarred or dry fingerprints. Conversely, for those who encounter difficulties with their facial and iris biometrics, they will be prompted to use their fingerprints instead. In the rare instances where all three biometrics fail, the traveller can approach ICA’s manual counters. ICA officers are also at hand at automated lanes to render assistance if required.”
“If the seized property is no longer required for investigations or Court proceedings, the Police will apply to the Court for the property to be returned to the rightful owner. The seizure and return of property will also be documented.”
“During investigations or Court proceedings, the Police may facilitate the payment of restitution monies or the return of recovered properties. The process for each is distinct. Restitution is voluntarily offered by accused persons. When an accused person offers restitution monies to the victim and the victim accepts the offer, the investigation officer may facilitate the payment of restitution where required. As far as possible, arrangements will be made for the restitution monies to be paid directly from the accused person to the victim. Where this is not possible, the investigation officer may act as an intermediary. In such a case, another officer will be required to witness the handing over of monies from the accused person to the investigation officer and, subsequently, from the investigation officer to the victim. The accused person and the victim will be informed of and must agree to this arrangement beforehand. In addition, supervisors are required to verify that the restitution was done properly. The entire process is documented, including the amount of restitution, the date and mode of payment, the name of the officers involved in facilitating the restitution, and the acknowledgement by the accused person and the victim that the restitution sum has been paid. Where the case is heard in Court, the Police or the prosecution will inform the Court of any restitution made. Such restitution will be recorded and may be subject to verification by the accused person and the victim during Court proceedings. In cases of theft or fraud, the recovered property may be returned to the rightful owner or seized by the Police for investigations or Court proceedings.”
“Since the Integrated Resorts started operations in 2010, the Police have detected 11 individuals who used criminal proceeds in the casinos. All 11 individuals were prosecuted and convicted for money laundering offences. All of these cases were reported to and investigated by the Police. The Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) has not directly received reported cases of money laundering. There is a framework to prevent money laundering in the casinos. GRA requires the casino operators to put safeguards in place, such as conducting customer due diligence checks and periodic monitoring of patrons’ transactions. GRA conducts regular inspections of the casino operators. Where non-compliance is detected, GRA will require the casino operators to implement rectification measures. GRA will also take regulatory action against the casino operator, such as imposing financial penalties, where merited. We also have tough penalties to deter money laundering. The Corruption, Drug Trafficking and Other Serious Crimes (Confiscation of Benefits) Act (CDSA) criminalises the laundering of benefits derived from drug dealing and other criminal conduct. Individuals convicted of money laundering offences are liable to a fine of up to S$500,000 and/or a term of imprisonment of up to 10 years. In May this year, we enhanced CDSA by introducing new offences to allow the Police to act more effectively against money laundering.”
“Our security agencies conduct regular patrols of Changi Airport, including the transit area. The airport’s security officers and other frontline staff, such as check-in agents, cleaners, trolley retrievers and retail staff, are also trained to look out for persons exhibiting suspicious or irregular behaviours that could be of security concern, including due to mental health issues. Airlines also conduct their own assessment of passengers. Those identified as an on-board risk, for example, where they may harm themselves or others, will be refused boarding by the airline. Suspicious individuals and those identified as an on-board risk will be reported to the security agencies for further checks. Appropriate actions will be taken to ensure everyone’s safety.”
“All Singapore Police Force (SPF) and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) full-time National Servicemen (NSFs) undergo basic training conducted by the Police Training Command or Civil Defence Academy before they are deployed for operational duties. During basic training, NSFs are taught their Home Team Department’s core values and code of conduct, which include the need to report practices that breach existing policies, procedures or doctrines. NSFs and officers can confidentially report wrongful workplace practices through reporting channels which have been well-established in SPF and SCDF. They can raise issues related to breaches of policies, malpractice or wrongdoing in the workplace to their direct supervisor, Unit Commander or Director and even the senior leadership of their Home Team Department and the Ministry headquarters. This can be done in writing or in person. All reports are looked into objectively and expeditiously. The NSFs and officers are informed of the reporting channels when they first join their Home Team Department, during their basic training. They are reminded during subsequent in-service training programmes and some dialogues and forums with management, as well as through periodic internal communications.”
“The Police have been working with social media and e-commerce platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, to take action against online scams. Since 2021, more than 5,900 online monikers and advertisements involved in suspected scams have been flagged out by Police for termination. The turnaround time varies for each removal, depending on the responsiveness of the platforms. For example, Shopee would usually take about one to two days to respond, while Carousell and Facebook would take longer, sometimes up to five days or even longer. At the end of the spectrum, Telegram has not responded to Police’s requests. Given the harms that can be caused by scam accounts and posts, it is imperative that they be taken down as fast as possible when flagged. We have been engaging the Internet companies to improve their turnaround time, so that we can reduce the number of people who may fall prey to the scammers. The Online Criminal Harms Act (OCHA) was passed in Parliament in July 2023. When OCHA is operationalised progressively from the first quarter of 2024, Police will be able to direct online services to prevent suspected scam accounts or content from interacting with or reaching Singapore users. Non-compliance to these Directions will be an offence. While OCHA is not yet operationalised, social media services designated under the Broadcasting Act are already required to put in place systems and processes to minimise exposure to harmful content for users in Singapore, including scams. Singapore users are also able to report such content to the social media services for removal under their community guidelines and standards. These requirements are spelt out in the Code of Practice for Online Safety under the Broadcasting Act.”
“The intent of the prequalification criteria for the balloting of Place of Worship (PW) land is to prioritise the allocation of new PW sites to religious organisations (ROs) that contribute to the community and demonstrate a need for the land. While the same does not apply to ROs which are renewing their leases, lease renewal applications for PW land are assessed by agencies taking into consideration whether the use of the land is in line with planning intention and whether the RO continues to serve the needs of the community.”
“Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are assessed to be of a low fire risk due to the high safety standards imposed by the Land Transport Authority. These standards are stipulated under Technical Reference 25, which takes reference from international safety standards, and also mandates regular maintenance, electrical safety inspection and testing of EV charging stations. Permitted EV charging stations are designed with automatic internal electricity cut-off should there be a malfunction during the charging process. In addition, the Singapore Civil Defence Force’s Fire Code requires at least one emergency main isolation shut-off switch to be provided within 15 metres of an EV charging station. This can be used to fully shut off the main electrical supply to the charging station in the case of a fire, to facilitate firefighting operations. Within buildings, EV charging stations are usually installed in car parks. There are existing fire safety provisions in the Fire Code to address the fire risk of car parks, such as fire compartmentation of the car parks from other areas, to prevent fire spread and ensure adequate ventilation for smoke dispersal. Sprinklers are required in basement car parks and car parks of large shopping malls and high-rise buildings. Should there be a fire involving an EV or a charging station, these provisions will reduce the impact of the fire before the arrival of first responders.”
“They are adept at using technology to swiftly move funds, often across borders, and to cover their tracks. This compounds the challenges for our investigation officers. The recent money laundering case is a good example. Minister Josephine Teo spoke about the scale and complexity of the case. Just to conduct the initial raids and initiate investigations against the suspects and to seize their assets, we had to muster more than 400 Police officers. The suspects do not number only the 10 arrested; many more are being investigated and we are looking for others who are outside Singapore. More assets are being uncovered and seized. Many Police officers are going to be involved in the coming years in the investigations and the Court proceedings. Burnout among our Police officers is a concern. Just like all of us, they need adequate time to rest and re-charge and take care of their families. We need to support them, also so that they can keep up their high levels of performance and continue to keep Singapore as one of the safest places in the world.”
“Between January and June 2023, there were 34,605 crimes reported to the Police. Of these, about 75% were attributed to white-collar crimes, scams and cybercrimes. The Police do not track the number of officers deployed to investigate such crimes. Nevertheless, it would be accurate to say that we are operating on a very lean force and our Police officers are very stretched. We have always had one of the lowest Police officers to population ratios in the world. However, in the last few years, the number of white-collar crimes, cybercrimes and especially scams, has increased exponentially. The number of reported scam cases, for example, has increased by more than 400% over the last five years. During this period, the number of people involved in scams which the Police have had to arrest, has increased by close to 100%. These trends do not look like they are reversing anytime soon. However, the number of Police investigators has increased only slightly over this period, by about 7%. It is not sustainable. The performance and effectiveness of the force may deteriorate. There may be more investigation mistakes and slip-ups, and more things may fall through the cracks. Our investigation officers have to deal with a huge range of crime cases and not just white-collar crimes, scams and cybercrimes. They operate under intense pressure, to solve the cases and arrest the perpetrators before the leads go cold, while having to juggle many ongoing investigations, prosecutions and arrest operations, all at the same time. The number and complexity of such cases have increased, with well-resourced criminals running sophisticated operations with extensive networks, often transnational.”
“The Police do not track the number of reports that relate to buskers. Where a Police report is made, the Police will make an assessment of the case and respond accordingly if there are law and order concerns. If a person makes a report which they know or believe to be false, with the intent to cause the Police to use their lawful powers to the annoyance of another, they may be liable for an offence under section 182 of the Penal Code 1871.”
“The Police conduct public education events to raise awareness among youths on the consequences of crime, including of being a money mule. Among others, the Criminal Behavioural Analysis Competition 2023: Youths Against Scams in July 2023 engaged and educated youths on the preventive actions they can take to protect themselves from falling prey to scams and advised them not to facilitate scam operations. The Police also collaborate with the Ministry of Education on school talks and other events. For example, the Anti-Scam and Cybersecurity Makeathon in April 2023 encouraged students to come up with ideas to combat scams and improve cybersecurity and help spread anti-scam and cybersecurity messages to their friends and family. The Corruption, Drug Trafficking, and Other Serious Crimes (Confiscation of Benefits) Act 1992 (CDSA) was amended earlier this year. It will enable the Police to take firmer enforcement action against money mules when it comes into effect. The Police and the Monetary Authority of Singapore have been working with banks to inform their customers, including youths, on the amendments, to deter them from becoming money mules, for example, by enhancing the current advisory that is provided to customers when they open a new bank account. The enhanced advisory will reinforce the message that customers may be liable if their accounts are used by others for criminal activities, in line with the latest CDSA amendments.”
“Member Mr Melvin Yong raised a similar question for the Sitting on 3 October 2023. In our reply, we explained the reasons for the increase in road traffic fatalities in the first half of 2023. The reasons for the increase in overall traffic accidents are similar. A longer period of monitoring will be required to make any meaningful assessment of whether the amendments to the Road Traffic Act in 2019 have been effective. Nonetheless, the increase in the number of accidents and fatalities is a concern. To address this, the Traffic Police (TP) have stepped up their three-pronged approach of education, engagement and enforcement. We had also outlined in our reply to Mr Melvin Yong, some of the measures TP will put in place to address these trends.”
“As suggested by the Member, we will work with the Ministry of Education to remind students about the entry restrictions into amusement centres.”
“To reduce the risk of truancy during school hours, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) requires amusement centre operators to conduct verification checks to ensure that persons below 16 years old are not admitted on a school day, except between 6.30 pm and 11.59 pm. The operators are also required to display signs at prominent locations within their premises to notify customers of the entry restrictions. These requirements are imposed as licensing conditions under their Public Entertainment Licence. Operators who fail to comply may be subject to regulatory action under the Public Entertainments Act. MHA does not track the number of students who patronise amusement centres, or the amount spent at the centres. We have observed that, increasingly, games being offered in amusement centres have elements of chance, and high-value prizes are being offered. This may increase the risk of gambling inducement, in particular, with vulnerable persons, such as youths. To reduce this risk, from 1 March 2024, MHA will restrict the value of prizes for amusement centre games to less than $100. We will also prohibit operators of amusement centres from offering cash, cash equivalents, credit or merchant vouchers as prizes, as well as the sell-back of prizes to the operators. We do not intend to require operators to display the odds of winning the games. Doing so may impose undue regulatory burden on the operators, which may not be proportionate to the gambling risks of such games. In addition, many of the games, such as "coin pushers", do not have clearly defined odds. MHA will continue to monitor and review the safeguards against gambling inducement risks in such games.”
“As of 31 August 2023, there were 418 Singaporean prison inmates aged 21 years old and above, and serving a sentence of 12 months or less.”
“The Singapore Police Force (SPF) has been leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance its capabilities and operational effectiveness. For example, it has used AI in its efforts against child sexual abuse materials. Investigators use an AI programme to sieve out possible obscene materials from seized devices. This allows investigators to perform digital forensic analysis more efficiently. Another example is the ScamShield Bot on WhatsApp, which uses AI to help users determine whether WhatsApp messages they receive are likely to be scam messages. SPF will continue to work with partners, such as the Home Team Science and Technology Agency, and the Government Technology Agency, to experiment and leverage AI for its mission.”
“All travellers arriving via private jets are screened and their hand-carried and check-in baggage may be examined. With advance passenger information, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority is also able to identify high-risk travellers before their arrival in Singapore and subject them to even more thorough checks upon arrival.”
“I urge all road users to play their part to keep the roads safe for all of us.”
“In the first half of 2023, the number of traffic accidents resulting in fatalities increased by 58% to 71, from 45 in the first half of 2022. The increase was partly due to higher road traffic volumes, with the lifting of pandemic-related safe management measures. In the first half of 2017 to 2019, the number of traffic accidents resulting in fatalities averaged 60. This decreased to an average of 49 in the same period of the COVID-19 years, 2020 to 2022. Our priority remains the elderly and motorcyclists. They continue to account for a disproportionate number of fatalities. The 37.2% of elderly pedestrian accidents occurred due to jaywalking, and the top causes for motorcycle-related accidents relate to failing to keep a proper lookout, failing to have proper control of the motorcycle and changing lanes without due care. The Traffic Police (TP) have stepped up education and engagement of the elderly and motorcyclists, such as the Road Safety Concert for Seniors in August this year, and the Reward the Rider initiative in July, which rewarded motorcyclists for safe riding habits. We have also been emphasising the importance of safe road crossing practices at community engagement platforms, such as TP's regular elderly community engagements and the Singapore Road Safety Month every year. The Member may refer to our past replies to Parliamentary Questions and past Police News Releases for more information on TP's initiatives to maintain road safety. TP will also continue to enforce against road user groups of concern, such as those who speed or drink and drive. It will also continue to leverage technology to help shape desirable road behaviour, including the use of enforcement cameras. Road safety is a shared responsibility. TP's efforts alone will not be enough.”
“An inter-agency committee is reviewing the Community Dispute Management Framework. Potential enhancements include mandating mediation for suitable types of cases and piloting a team of personnel vested with investigation and enforcement powers to follow up on serious disputes between neighbours. For the pilot, the team of dedicated personnel will focus on noise disputes as noise is the primary source of disputes between neighbours, and mandatory mediation will apply. As experience is gained from the pilot, agencies will assess expanding mandatory mediation to other types of neighbour disputes, including disputes involving second-hand smoke.”
“1 They may also visit the CPF Service Centres or ServiceSG Centres, where the officers will help with the nomination process and also act as their witnesses.”