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On 13 February 2026, a joint counter-terrorism and emergency preparedness exercise codenamed “Exercise Heartbeat” was held at the University Town (UTown) of the National University of Singapore (NUS).
Organised by the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), the Exercise saw more than 120 participants involved, including officers from the SPF’s Emergency Response Team (ERT), the Police Tactical Unit (PTU) of the Special Operations Command and the Ground Response Force (GRF).
The exercise demonstrated the close collaboration between Home Team agencies and their community partners in responding to terrorist attacks within UTown – an educational hub that offers residential spaces, teaching facilities and a cultural environment for students and university staff.
The Exercise began with a surprise attack by two gunmen, who opened fire on students in the vicinity of UTown, shattering the afternoon calm.
Amidst the chaos, a few students remained calm and responded swiftly, applying Improvised First Aid Skills to help injured students, demonstrating the importance of public vigilance and preparedness during an emergency.
Soon, GRF officers arrived on scene, followed by ERT and PTU officers who quickly took down the gunmen and brought the situation under control.
Mr Goh Pei Ming, Minister of State (MOS) for the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Family and Social Development, observed the Exercise and thanked officers for their efforts.
“Today’s Exercise Heartbeat demonstrates the strong partnership between the Home Team agencies and NUS, and our collective commitment to safeguarding our Institutes of Higher Learning against the threat of terrorism,” MOS Goh said. “When our community is prepared, vigilant and united, we can respond swiftly and effectively to any threat and collectively keep Singapore safe and secure.”
Partner with Us Today!
Everyone has a role to play in keeping Singapore safe against terrorism. Organisations can also enhance the safety and security of their staff and premises by becoming SaferSG partners. For more information on how you can partner the Police, visit the ”SaferSG, Together” web portal.
