Stringent checks, armed security proposed for mass events
The Emergency Response team’s (ERT) seen patrolling at the Jubilee Bridge on 22 July 2016. TODAY file photo
SINGAPORE — Armed security officers and barricades could be deployed by organisers of large-scale public events here, while full-person and bag checks may also have to be conducted. These were among the measures under new laws proposed by the Government, in the wake of terror attacks at such events abroad.
Public-event organisers who expect a crowd of more than 5,000 will have to inform the police, who will assess the nature of the event before drawing up the security requirements, such as whether prominent individuals will be attending, the prevailing threat situation, and the amount of media coverage. For private events, the threshold is 10,000.
The amendments to the Public Order Act, first mooted during the Ministry of Home Affairs’ Committee of Supply debate last week, were introduced in Parliament on Thursday (March 9). The changes will give the police power to direct event organisers to implement steps to beef up security.
Events deemed to be at high risk of a terror attack or public order incident — which may include large sporting events, concerts and the Chingay Parade — will be declared Special Events. Organisers will be directed to put in place certain security measures. Armed auxiliary police officers may be necessary for events deemed to be of higher risk, said the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Currently, there are no guidelines on security measures for events. Only special events deemed in need of enhanced security have to comply with a set of measures, such as the National Day Parade and the opening and closing ceremonies of SEA Games in 2015.
In response to queries, the ministry said there are about 200 events held annually that attract more than 5,000 participants, including the Chingay Parade, Marina Bay Singapore Countdown, Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon, and some concerts.
The amendments to the Act will also stop foreigners from using assemblies and processions in Singapore to promote political causes, by giving the Commissioner of Police powers to reject such applications. If the amendments are passed, event organisers who do not comply with orders may be jailed up to 12 months and fined up to S$20,000. In these cases, the police can put in place the security measures and recover implementation costs from the organisers.
While event organisers approached by TODAY agreed on the need to keep their guard up, some were concerned about the lack of experience and manpower within the security industry.
Ms Lauretta Alabons, co-founder of LAMC Productions, which organised the Guns N’ Roses concert last month, stressed the need for proper training: “Often we see security officers who just stand around and don’t seem to be sure of the protocols … how do we find this pool of experienced manpower to support our events?”
Security firm Certis Cisco said it has strengthened measures, such as using temporary concrete barriers to ensure that vehicles cannot plough through crowded areas. Asked if it foresees having to increase charges in light of increased demand for security services, Ms Karyn Low, the firm’s assistant vice-president for corporate communications, said costs depend on market forces. “Organisers should work with reputable security agencies to incorporate the deployment of armed and unarmed security officers, and the use of surveillance equipment to keep costs down,” she added.
ATTACKS AT PUBLIC EVENTS
- Last December, a man driving a truck rampaged through a Christmas market in Berlin, killing 12 people and injuring 56 others.
- Last July, a Bastille Day celebration in Nice turned into a nightmare when a speeding truck killed 86 people and injured 202 along a crowded promenade.
