Introduction

Besides serving the public from the wide network of Police service points situated all over Singapore, it is not uncommon to find our men in blue on patrol on the streets to keep our homes safe. Sometimes, as in the case of house visits, it is also not surprising to see a Police officer appearing at your doorstep on an ordinary day either.

Even though not every citizen has the need to request for Police services in his daily life and the general public may not have frequent encounters with the Police due to our low crime rate, it is important that we create better awareness on our work processes and procedures.

So before putting our attention on the six areas of Police work processes and procedures highlighted here and provided at the Police service points, let us take a quick look at the work of Police officers on the streets. As this is usually the most likely circumstance under which majority of the public will come into contact with the Police, the following information will let you know what to expect during the course of your interaction with our officers on the streets.

Officers On Patrol

Police officers are on patrol every day as part of the measures to prevent and detect crime. At the same time, patrolling enhances the officers' ability to react to emergencies faster. Patrols could be conducted on foot, bicycle, scooter or car. Spot checks and road blocks are two routine activities performed in the course of the rounds.

Spot Checks

Spot checks are a necessary part of everyday policing not only because wanted persons could be found through the process but also because officers could rely on the same process to spot members of public who may require help. For example, elderly and young children who have lost their way are often reunited with their families as a result of our officers being vigilant in spotting signs of distress.

What To Expect And How To React During Spot Checks?

The officers would be courteous though firm in their approach.

Please furnish your particulars when asked to do so. It is not an offence not to carry one's identity card. However, if you furnish your particulars verbally, the officer may request for other documents with photographs such as work permit etc that may be available to verify your identity.

The officers may make enquiries with regard to your purpose and presence at the location. Other questions may also be asked depending on the situation.

At times, the officers may request to check your belongings. In such situations, please allow the officers to check them. The check will be performed in your presence, and upon completion of the check, the officer will return the belongings to you.

You will be allowed to proceed on your journey once everything is found to be in order.

Your cooperation with the Police is most appreciated.

Road Blocks

Road blocks are normally conducted for the following reasons:

To control the movement of vehicles and persons;

To conduct checks to detect criminals and wanted persons;

To deter crime at specific areas with higher crime rate by enhancing police presence in these areas.

What To Expect And How To React During A Road Block?

Slow down when you see a road block.

Follow the hand signals and instructions of the officers conducting the road block.

If the officers wave you on, proceed to drive through the road block.

If you are asked to pull to the side of the road, follow the instruction and park the vehicle on the left side of the road. Please switch off your engine and wait for the officers.

You will be required to furnish your particulars. Some questions may be asked. A breath analyser test may follow. A search of the vehicle may also be conducted.

You will be allowed to proceed on your journey once everything is found to be in order.

Once again, your cooperation with the Police will be most appreciated.

House Visits

House visits is a long standing programme that has helped the officers build rapport with the residents and enabled them to acquire greater local knowledge of the area they serve so that more appropriate safety and security measures could be developed for the neighbourhood. These are friendly visits made by the Police officers serving your neighbourhood. The primary purpose is for the officers to introduce themselves to you, to obtain feedback on community's needs, to disseminate crime prevention advice/safety messages and answer any queries that you may have about law and order issues.

Calls/Letters From Police

When you receive a call or letter from the Police, do not be alarmed. The Police may simply be requesting for your assistance or providing you with some information that may be of interest to you. At times, your presence may be required at a Police station. If you are unable to make the appointment, you should call the officer who sent the letter or made the call to arrange for a more appropriate time.

Police Service Points

For your convenience, we have also included a comprehensive list of the various Police service points and phone numbers. The phone numbers of other relevant public service providers can also be found. By referring to the list, you can call direct to the correct service provider to make enquiries or seek assistance.