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On 2 October 2025, the Police Security Command (SecCom) commemorated a remarkable milestone – 75 years of dedicated service protecting Singapore’s leaders and visiting dignitaries. This special moment marked the evolution of a specialist Police unit that has adapted to meet Singapore’s changing security needs whilst maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and integrity that have defined its mission since 1950.
Beginnings
On 28 April 1950, a failed assassination attempt on Governor of Singapore Sir Franklin Charles Gimson at Happy World Stadium sparked the need for a dedicated unit to protect key government officials. In response, a number of detectives from the Criminal Investigation Department were hand-picked to form a Security Squad to protect the Governor.
By 1953, arising from growing security demands, the Squad expanded to a Security Section, with 30 detective sergeants and two senior officers protecting the Commissioner-General of Southeast Asia, the Governor and other officials.
A Pioneering Officer
When the late Assistant Commissioner of Police (AC) Tan Kah Wan joined the Singapore Police Force (SPF) in 1951, the memory of the 1950 incident was still fresh and the small Security Squad was finding its footing. AC Tan would become an early architect of Singapore’s modern protection system for key officials, transforming a colonial-era security arrangement into a modern, professional unit.
The pivotal moment came in 1965 when then-Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew tasked AC Tan with selecting officers to provide protection services for the first Cabinet. AC Tan restructured the Security Section into the Security Branch, introducing rigorous training in firearms, unarmed combat and escort methods. A bungalow at Pearl’s Hill Terrace was also converted to house the “new” Security Branch.
AC Tan’s leadership philosophy was simple: “If you expect the men to do something, you too have to do it yourself.”
Under his guidance, the Security Branch grew in strength and developed new capabilities in its first two decades. He believed that Personal Security Officers (PSOs) must maintain the highest level of confidentiality and personal integrity in fulfilling their role, a principle that continues to guide every PSO.
After AC Tan left the Security Branch to set up the Police Tactical Unit in 1975, he was involved in a number of high-stakes operations. Even in his retirement, AC Tan continued to care deeply about the work of the SPF, contributing to the SecCom Heritage Centre prior to its commissioning in 2008.
Continuity and Change
The principles AC Tan established continue to guide officers like Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Sim Boh Thiam, who has witnessed SecCom’s modern-day transformation during his two-decade career with the unit.
“I joined the Force because I was driven by a desire to contribute to Singapore’s safety,” he recalls. “As a Police officer, my experiences during major national events inspired me to become a PSO, and I joined the Security Branch in 2003.”
Having served as a Field and Swimming Instructor and Assistant Leadership Trainer at the Old Police Academy, DSP Sim was well-equipped with the necessary skills for SecCom’s demanding work. “My training had instilled in me discipline, resilience and leadership skills that made my transition to SecCom smoother,” he explains “They equipped me to meet the unit’s rigorous physical demands, especially the gruelling Hell Week.”
From 2003 to 2014, DSP Sim served as a PSO, helping to protect key members of the Cabinet. His experiences gave DSP Sim unique insights into the unique requirements of protection work. “Our role has evolved to meet each official’s unique leadership style and needs,” he explains. “As PSOs, we must remain adaptable while never compromising on safety and security.”
Among the assignments that stand out in his memory was serving the late Founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew. “His discipline and attention to detail set a strong example for all of us,” he recalls.
Operational Leadership and Mentorship
In his current role as an Operations Officer at SecCom, DSP Sim continues to apply the rigour and attention to detail he learnt as a frontline officer. “I help to plan for manpower requirements for major events and close protection escort for foreign dignitaries and ensure that our officers are ready for any contingency,” he shares. “Our teams must be well-prepared and professional to make a strong impression during every assignment.”
DSP Sim is also keen to share his experiences with those who are new to SecCom: “Another key role I have involves mentoring our new officers, emphasising discipline and preparedness during operations.”
75 Years of Upholding the Highest Standards in Protection
Having witnessed SecCom's transformation over the past two decades, DSP Sim has seen major improvements across all aspects of the unit’s operations. “SecCom continues to evolve with better training, equipment and vehicles,” he shares. “New training methods and facilities will further enhance our readiness, ensuring our PSOs are better prepared than ever.”
As SecCom marks its 75th anniversary, DSP Sim reflects on the milestone’s significance. “It represents our commitment to adapt, uphold high standards and learn from global best practices,” he explains. “This legacy will continue to inspire future generations of officers.”
