Police have arrested three Chinese youths aged between 17 and 18 years for posting racist remarks on “Facebook”, a popular social networking website.

Following a report lodged on 30 Jan 10, police conducted extensive enquiries and managed to establish the identity of the suspects. All three suspects were arrested on 31 Jan 2010 and have since been released on bail. Investigations into the case are on-going.

Under the Sedition Act, anyone found guilty of promoting feelings of ill-will and hostility between different races or classes of the population of Singapore shall be liable, on conviction for a first offence, to a fine not exceeding $5,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years or to both.

Commander of Bedok Police Division, Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Police, Teo Chun Ching said; "Police take a very stern view of acts that could threaten the social harmony in Singapore. The Internet may be a convenient medium to express one's views but members of the public should bear in mind that they are no less accountable for their actions online."