Singapore Police Crime Prevention Advisory For The Festive Season – Molest & Unruly Crowds

The Christmas and the New Year celebrations are round the corner and as with previous years, large crowd and heavy vehicular traffic will be expected at major shopping centers, along areas like Orchard Road , Marina Bay, Vivo City and Sentosa. Police would like to advise all shoppers and revelers to remain vigilant against crime during the period.

CRIME PREVENTION ADVICE AGAINST MOLEST

Members of the public, especially women, are advised to stay vigilant against those who may take the opportunity to commit molest during this festive season. The following are some precautions women can take to minimize the risk of becoming a victim:

• Be wary of strangers who approach you in crowded areas
• Stay close to your friends or move around in groups when in crowded places
• Be aware and alert of your surroundings. If someone stands exceptionally close to you, or if you suspect that you are being followed, remain calm and proceed to a more crowded area to seek assistance;
• Avoid taking short-cuts through dark and deserted places. Keep to well-lit areas where there are more people and traffic;
• Do not enter the lift with a stranger. Let the stranger take the lift and wait for the next one;
• When coming home late at night, get someone to meet up with you at a planned location like the bus-stop, car-park or void-deck to escort you home;
• Carry a shrill alarm to call for help in times of emergencies; and
• When traveling in a public transport, remain alert and do not nap or sleep. 

CRIME PREVENTION ADVICE AGAINST UNRULY CROWDS

During the festive season, people may congregate in groups to celebrate. During such an occasion, people may also consume alcohol. Unfortunately, some celebrations may turn rowdy. Police take a serious view against actions which disrupt public order and peace and will not hesitate to take action against those involved in such cases. Foreign workers who are convicted of such crimes may also risk losing their jobs.

• Members of the public are advised to adopt the following crime prevention measures to protect themselves:
• Be aware of your surroundings. If you notice a crowd likely to turn rowdy, move away and report the matter to Police
• When confronted by unfriendly/unruly persons, diffuse the situation by moving away quickly and avoid unnecessary eye-contacts or conversations. If the harassment persists, seek assistance from people and call for Police; and
• Consume alcohol within your limits and remain sober