The Police are investigating a 32-year-old man and a 46-year-old woman for two separate incidents where they allegedly used abusive words against public servants.
For the first incident, on 21 August 2021, the Police received a report about liquor being consumed in a public place after permitted timings. Upon arrival, the officers observed the 46-year-old woman socialising with three men at a park connector near Pandan Gardens, and all four were not wearing masks. The men complied with the officers’ request to the four to put on their masks, but the woman refused to wear a mask. Despite repeated advice by the officers, she refused to comply and allegedly hurled vulgarities at them. The woman was then arrested for the offences of disorderly behaviour and using abusive words against a public servant. The woman is also assisting with investigations into a breach of safe distancing measures.
For the second incident, on 29 August 2021, the Police received a call for assistance from a Safe Distancing Enforcement Officer (“SDEO”) from the National Environment Agency, informing that the 32-year-old man had refused to comply with his advice while he was performing his duties at Boon Lay Place Food Village. The SDEO had observed the man to be seated on a marked seat and had advised him against doing so. Instead of complying, the man allegedly challenged the SDEO’s authority to enforce safe distancing measures and hurled vulgarities at the SDEO. The man was issued with a notice of composition for non-compliance with safe distancing measures, and is currently assisting with investigations for allegedly using abusive words against a public servant.
For first-time offenders, the offence of disorderly behaviour is punishable under Section 20 of the Miscellaneous Offence (Public Order and Nuisance) Act with a fine up to $2,000, imprisonment term of up to six months, or both. Upon second or subsequent convictions, individuals are liable for a fine up to $5,000, imprisonment up to 12 months, or both.
The offence of using abusive words against a public servant or public service worker is punishable under Section 6(3) of the Protection from Harassment Act with a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment term of up to 12 months, or both.
Individuals found guilty of breaching the Regulations under the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020 are liable for a fine of up to $10,000, imprisonment term of up to six months, or both.
Members of the public are advised to take the prevailing safe distancing measures seriously. The Police take a stern view of abusive behaviour against public servants who are carrying out their duties and irresponsible behaviour relating to the flouting of safe distancing measures. Offenders will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
19 October 2021 @ 6:30 PM