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Chinatown has long been a popular destination, especially in the weeks leading up to Chinese New Year (CNY), when visitors come to stock up on festive treats and colourful decorations. Amidst a sea of crimson and gold, officers from the Singapore Police Force (SPF) maintain a vigilant watch amidst the vibrant festive atmosphere.
Police Life joins Sergeant (Sgt) Jaime Ng and Senior Staff Sergeant (SSSgt) Mohammad Salimie from Bukit Merah East Neighbourhood Police Centre (NPC) on a patrol in Chinatown.
Keeping Watch Under the Lanterns
As Community Policing Unit (CPU) officers, Sgt Jaime and SSSgt Salimie’s daily work routine includes collaborating with community partners and engaging residents, business owners and youths on crime prevention advisories.
Sgt Jaime is a CPU officer who has been with the SPF for five years. She finds joy and meaning in her work. “I chose to become a CPU officer as I enjoy helping the underprivileged and youths,” said Sgt Jaime. “But even before joining the CPU, I already had a soft spot for youths and children.”
During her time as a Ground Response Force officer, Sgt Jaime assisted in the search for a secondary school student who’d gone missing. Determined to play her part, she extended her search beyond her shift hours, telling her partner they should try a bit longer before heading back.
SSSgt Salimie, a 17-year SPF veteran currently serving as a CPU officer, motivated by the pride he takes in keeping the community safe and secure. “I enjoy talking to residents, business owners and community leaders,” he said. “Over time, we build trust with them, understand their concerns on the ground and work to address these, together with the community.”
Extra Eyes and Ears
During the festive period, Citizens on Patrol (COP) volunteers also step up to join patrols in Chinatown. They are easily identified by their cheerful attitude and blue COP vests.
As members of the “SaferSG, Together” movement, COP volunteers serve as extra eyes and ears on the ground, sharing crime prevention messages with visitors and store owners.
Before deployments, the COP volunteers are briefed on the areas of focus, crime trends and common festive-period offences (such as pickpocketing or theft). During patrols, they stay in constant contact with CPU officers for timely updates.
“A lot of work happens behind the scenes’,’ explained SSSgt Salimie. “We identify areas where community engagement can make the biggest difference and work closely with the volunteers, stakeholders and agencies to ensure that everything is smooth sailing.”
The Heart of the Crowd
Working as a team, the CPU officers and COP volunteers interact with members of the public, provide directions to visitors who appear lost whilst navigating and patrolling Chinatown’s bustling streets.
“Many members of the public thanked us for our presence and some even wished us Gong Xi Fa Cai,” Sgt Jaime says. “These small gestures never fail to put a smile on my face!”
Along the way, many parents with young children also wave at or greet the officers. “It feels good to be part of something that helps the community celebrate important traditions,” SSSgt Salimie shares.
During Chinatown's annual CNY festivities, CPU officers take on an enhanced role, spending more time walking the ground. “Instead of our usual community outreach and patrols, we focus more on community engagement, staying alert and ensuring everyone can enjoy the celebrations safely,” explains Sgt Jaime.
Committed to Her Duties
Despite being deployed during this period – including on her birthday, which falls on the first day of CNY – Sgt Jaime remains committed to her duties, with her parents supporting her dedication. “I’d wondered if I might be deployed” she admits, “but I know we have a key role to play. Our duty to prevent, detect and deter crime never rests.”
As we welcome the Year of the Horse, Sgt Jaime and SSSgt Salimie wish everyone a happy and prosperous CNY and encourage all to enjoy the festivities.
“Stay vigilant, take care of your personal belongings and look out for one another this CNY!” Sgt Jaime advises. Remember to neigh-ver let your guard down against crime!
Visiting the CNY Bazaar at Chinatown between 13 and 16 February? Check the Crowd@Chinatown portal to view real-time updates on crowd levels and area closures.
Keen to contribute to community safety? You can join the SPF as a volunteer through various schemes. For more information, visit the SaferSG Together web portal.
