Meet Geylang NPC’s SSSgt Fadhly, a CPU officer who builds rapport with his community and shares anti-crime messages!
By: Domnic Dass
At the heart of Singapore's policing efforts lies a vital strategy - Community Policing Units (CPU), not only to combat crime but also foster a strong bond with the community they serve.
The present-day community policing framework of the Singapore Police Force (SPF) was implemented in 2012, equipping each Neighbourhood Police Centre (NPC) with a Crime Strike Force (CSF) and a CPU, to improve service quality. While the CSF deals with localised criminal activities, the CPU actively interacts with the community and carries out regular patrols.
One dedicated CPU officer making significant strides in community engagement is Senior Staff Sergeant (SSSgt) Mohamed Fadhly Bin Razali from Geylang NPC. Police Life joins SSSgt Fadhly on patrol, gaining insights into his work, challenges and commitment to keeping communities safe!
When did you join the SPF and CPU?
After serving my National Service in the Singapore Armed Forces in 2009, I wanted to pursue a career that was meaningful. I also had a strong desire to engage with the public. I then joined the Police in 2013 as a Ground Response Force officer before moving on to my current CPU role in 2017.
What’s your role and responsibility as a CPU officer?
As a CPU officer, my primary focus is on fostering community engagement and building strong connections between the Police and residents. We conduct neighbourhood patrols and offer crime prevention advice, striving to enhance community safety and trust.
What are some ways that CPU officers share anti-crime messages?
We raise awareness among students and residents through various outreach initiatives such as school talks and community events held with Community Centres and Residents’ Committees (RCs). The strong bonds we cultivate also enable residents to act as our ambassadors to help share anti-crime messages to others proactively.
What are some challenges you face as a CPU officer?
There’ve been instances when individuals were hesitant to accept assistance from us. In such scenarios, I’ll still extend a helping hand to offer aid. If they’re not comfortable with police involvement, I’ll actively seek assistance from other appropriate agencies or liaise with the RCs to engage them instead. It's vital to adapt and be resourceful, prioritising the well-being of the community in any way possible, even when we meet with resistance.
Share an interesting incident that occurred to you while you were on patrol.
During one of our anti-scam advisory rounds, we spotted a lady at a store attempting to buy $350 in gift cards for an online iPhone purchase. The seller seemed suspicious with no buyer reviews, kept insisting on payment via gift cards and even offered a free watch with the purchase! We intervened, stopped the purchase and warned her about this scam. She appreciated our timely intervention and advice. We were lucky to be at the right time and right place!
How do you build trust with your community?
I make it a point to greet residents with a warm smile and a friendly "Hi!" Engaging in respectful conversations with them is also a priority. During tense situations, my approach is to remain firm, fair and neutral towards all parties involved. I choose my words to help alleviate tension and diffuse the situation effectively.
You’re visibly well-built! How do you manage your fitness routine while working as a CPU officer?
I prioritise my physical well-being and aim to exercise at least four times a week. On weekends, I dedicate my time to my family and cherish these moments with them.
What advice would you like to share to encourage officers to keep fit as well?
It's essential to set personal fitness goals. Exercising regularly allows me to stay strong and agile, to carry and play with my children, making the most of our time together. My aspiration is to maintain this strength and energy to play with my grandchildren in the decades to come.
Check out the other On The Beat series with Ground Response Force, ProCom and TransCom!
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