Between 27 and 29 March 2015, Police received more than 20 reports regarding an online video that contained, in part, insensitive and disparaging remarks against Christians. On 29 March 2015, Police arrested a 16-year old male Singaporean in relation to the said video.
2 After Police investigations and in consultation with the Attorney General’s Chambers, the suspect will be charged in Court on 31 March 2015 for the following offences:
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Section 298 of the Penal Code
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Section 292(1)(a) of the Penal Code
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Section 4(1)(b) of the Protection from Harassment Act
3 Under Section 298 of the Penal Code, Chapter 224, whoever, with deliberate intention of wounding the religious or racial feelings of any person, utters any word or makes any sound in the hearing of that person, or makes any gesture in the sight of that person, or places any object in the sight of that person, or causes any matter however represented to be seen or heard by that person, shall be liable upon conviction with imprisonment for a term which may extend to 3 years, or with fine, or with both.
4 Under Section 292 of the Penal Code, whoever puts into circulation any obscene object whatsoever shall be liable upon conviction to a fine or to imprisonment of up to three months, or to both.
5 Under Section 4 of the Protection from Harassment Act, any person who makes any threatening, abusive or insulting communication, which is heard, seen or otherwise perceived by any person likely to be caused harassment, alarm or distress, shall be liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000.
6 Deputy Commissioner of Police (Investigations & Intelligence) Tan Chye Hee said, “Police take a stern view of acts that could threaten religious harmony in Singapore. Any person who uploads offensive content online with deliberate intention of wounding the religious or racial feelings of any person will be firmly dealt with in accordance with the law.”
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
30 March 2015 @ 11:25 PM