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As waves crash against the coastline, a white and blue Police patrol craft cuts through the waters. Day and night, Police Coast Guard (PCG) officers stand ready to safeguard Singapore’s territorial waters from potential threats.

Among them is Sergeant (Sgt) Ryan (not his real name), who has served as an assault diver in the PCG’s Special Task Squadron (STS) for the past five years. Driven by a strong sense of justice, he’s committed to protecting others and making a difference.

From the Start

Sgt Ryan joined the Singapore Police Force (SPF) in 2018 and his PCG journey started when he attended a recruitment talk as a trainee at the Home Team Academy. “I was intrigued by the unique working terrain and environment of the PCG,” Sgt Ryan recounted.

After expressing his interest in the PCG, he was selected to attend the Maritime Policing Course (MPC), where he learnt the fundamentals of law enforcement and the use of firearms, as well as skills that were unique to the PCG, such as water rescue techniques and boat handling. Upon completing his training, he was deployed to the PCG’s Brani Base.

Expecting the Unexpected at Sea

As an operator and assault diver in the STS, Sgt Ryan is trained to undertake high-risk maritime operations, from boarding non-compliant vessels to conducting covert underwater insertions.

With numerous vessels moving through Singapore’s waters each day, it’s the uncertainty of what can happen that keeps officers constantly alert. Sgt Ryan recalls a case of suspected unauthorised boarding that occurred during one of his early callouts. His team was activated in the early hours of the morning and, within minutes, they were headed towards the vessel, cutting through the stillness of the night.

As the officers boarded the vessel, the air felt thick with tension. With his senses heightened, Sgt Ryan began to methodically sweep the vessel, checking for unauthorised boarders.

In this manner, the team searched the entire vessel, checking one room at a time. Fortunately, no suspects were discovered. Sgt Ryan vividly remembers making sure that all the crew members were safe and accounted for before they were released to take over the vessel once more.

“This is the kind of job satisfaction that we strive for,” said Sgt Ryan.

Always Ready

Being on the frontlines of high-risk maritime security operations means that Sgt Ryan must maintain a high level of mental and physical readiness, to be focused and ready for any mission.

To prepare for each shift, his team uses its standby time to undergo various realistic training scenarios and drills. From Close Quarters Combat and fitness training to night exercises, the team continuously hones their skills. “Overcoming complex challenges together and returning safely after each operation brings us a deep sense of fulfilment and pride,” shared Sgt Ryan.

Sgt Ryan’s seven years with the PCG and steadfast commitment to protecting Singapore’s waters were recognised at the Commissioner of Police’s Commendation Ceremony, held in February 2026. “This award motivates me to keep holding myself to a higher standard of professionalism, integrity and dedication,” he said.

For those who want to pursue a career in maritime policing, Sgt Ryan shares that it’s a role that requires being able to respond to threats in a dynamic and unpredictable environment.

“It’s important to carry a strong sense of duty and integrity,” he says. “In this role, you’re not just enforcing the law, you’re protecting Singapore’s frontline at sea.”