Tighter security at checkpoints, Orchard Road over year-end holiday period: ICA, Police
Police officers, auxiliary police officers, and security officers will be deployed for crowd control. Photo: Najeer Yusof/TODAY
SINGAPORE — Expect tighter security checks if you are headed to town or out of the country during the upcoming year-end holiday break, the police and immigration authorities said on Wednesday (Dec 20).
In separate press releases, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and the Singapore Police Force (SPF) said that checks and security measures will be stepped up in anticipation of bigger crowds during the festive period.
The ICA urged those travelling overseas during this period to factor in extra time for immigration clearance, as security checks and patrols at the air, land and sea checkpoints will be stepped up.
Motorists using the land checkpoints at Woodlands and Tuas can also expect enhanced inspections of their vehicles, including the bonnets and boots. They are also advised to check the traffic situation via the Land Transport Authority’s One Motoring website, the ICA added.
Meanwhile, those staying in Singapore but planning to celebrate in town should expect large crowds in the vicinity of Orchard Road, Clarke Quay and Gardens by the Bay during Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the police said.
Police officers, auxiliary police officers, and security officers will be deployed for crowd control, while officers from the Protective Security Command, Emergency Response Teams and the Special Operations Command will also be on patrol.
The police urged the public to cooperate with the security personnel who will be conducting checks on bags and personal items, and reminder revelers to be vigilant against “opportunists who may commit molest”.
“There were previous incidents where individuals had sprayed foam into victims’ eyes before committing molest,” the police added.
To ensure easy and orderly dispersal of crowds during this period, crowd control barricades and direction signs will be put up. Security personnel will also be on hand to give out instructions to the public.
Those who wish to report suspicious persons and activities can do so via the SGSecure app, or call the Internal Security Department (1800-2626-473) or the Police (call 999 or SMS to 71999).
