Security Command

Security Command (SecCom) is responsible for the personal safety and security of all Cabinet Ministers. In addition, it provides protection for visiting dignitaries.

Since the beginning of the new millennium, SecCom has been acquiring counter-terrorist capabilities. These counter-measures in explosives, sniper, assault, surveillance, and electronic devices have now become an integral part of SecCom's core duties in bodyguard protection. Apart from these major enhancements, officers are also constantly trained in a wide variety of skills, which include instinctive shooting, close-quarters combat tactics, and protective driving.

OPERATIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS

2004 was a year of unprecedented activities for Security Command. Overall, there was a 40% increase in operational deployment. In Singapore, the appointment of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and the announcement of the new cabinet line-up gave rise to the need for deliberate arrangements which were expedited to provide newly appointed ministers with adequate security protection.

In tandem with Singapore's improved economy, there was also a significant increase in large-scale forums which attracted numerous foreign dignitaries. In 2004 alone, SecCom was involved in 20 such major functions and events, which attracted more than 180 foreign dignitaries. It is SecCom's belief that the care and protection it provided to these dignitaries would leave a lasting impression of what it can offer.

Beyond the arena of personal protection, SecCom worked towards fortifying the installation security of VVIPs' offices and residences. This included the Istana where the President, the Prime Minister, and other ministers work to administer the country. Ensuring that these premises are highly secured is imperative to the safety of VVIPs and the people working or staying within them. This is especially important in light of terrorists favouring the use of car bombs and suicide bombers as modes of attack.

Vehicular protection was also one other aspect that SecCom focused on. In 2004, SecCom beefed up the convoys of its VVIPs with Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs). Providing these vehicles at the rear of each convoy allowed its officers a better situational assessment of the traffic condition and an added advantage in engaging uninvited perpetrators. The motorcycles it uses in vehicular protection were also upgraded to the models used by the Traffic Police, allowing its officers better stability when deft manoevring is required. 

ADMINISTRATIVE ACHIEVEMENTS

Apart from excelling in operational capabilities, SecCom also played a role in cutting waste. With the mandate for civil servants to consider cost saving, SecCom encouraged officers to think creatively about trimming costs. SecCom also reviewed its administrative processes with the aim of establishing strong financial and procurement discipline across all units. This included identifying any areas requiring improvements and rectifying them promptly.

PEOPLE ACHIEVEMENTS

SecCom remains a premier VIP security agency that advocates continuous staff development and strong operational excellence. The year 2004 was a great one for SecCom as it won the overall championship in the Police Swimming Meet. SecCom also excelled in athletics, shooting competitions, and dragon boat races. Finally, SecCom achieved a score of 576 in its certification for the People Developer Standard (PDS) – a score that is reflective of its commitment towards staff development and philosophy of treating its officers as valued assets.

STRIVING TO ACHIEVE MORE

For the year 2005, SecCom will ready itself against new challenges, not the least of which is to remain as a resolute force in the security and protection of its VVIPs.