The Singapore Police Force (SPF) showcased its latest initiatives and capabilities during the Police Workplan Seminar Exhibition 2023 on May 12, 2023.
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) showcased its latest initiatives and capabilities during the Police Workplan Seminar Exhibition 2023 on May 12, 2023.
These initiatives focus on three main areas: enhancing the police’s response to public order and security incidents, augmenting frontline policing, and improving service delivery and community engagement.
During the seminar, Minister for Home Affairs and Law K Shanmugam delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of maintaining high public trust in the police force.
Tactical Strike Vehicle
One significant addition is the Tactical Strike Vehicle (TSV), developed jointly by the SPF and the Home Team Science and Technology Agency (HTX). This heavily fortified vehicle is designed to swiftly address public security incidents, equipped with a protective mesh, an armored body, a public announcement system, floodlights, and sensemaking cameras.
Counter Drone System
The SPF and HTX also introduced a counter-drone system aimed at enhancing police capabilities to address aerial threats. Drones pose significant risks as they can bypass traditional security measures during major events. The counter-drone system can detect unauthorized drones and capture visuals of any payloads they may carry. Once identified, ground forces can neutralize the drone using various methods, including locating the pilot or employing handheld jammers.
Patrol Robots
To further support police operations, SPF has deployed two autonomous patrol robots at Changi Airport Terminal 4 since April 2023, with plans for more deployments across Singapore. These robots provide continuous surveillance and complement human patrol officers by delivering live video feeds, broadcasting audio messages, and utilizing thermal imaging cameras.
Automated Armoury
Additionally, the SPF, Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB), and HTX have developed an Automated Armoury System. This smart locker system allows officers to withdraw and return their sidearms and tasers automatically, enhancing governance and accountability regarding police armaments.
Community Engagement Initiatives
To improve service delivery and community engagement, the SPF is transitioning to digital platforms, including a Traffic Police e-Appeals Portal and interactive service hotlines. Neighborhood Police Centres (NPCs) will be redesigned to offer self-service options like kiosks and found-property dropboxes. The new Woodleigh NPC will be the first redesigned center, serving the Bidadari estate from July 2023.
Moreover, SPF has collaborated with HTX and Ngee Ann Polytechnic to create Cody (Community Outreach BudDY), a Community Engagement Robot that can interact with the public in various vernacular languages.
Given the rise of scams, the Police Operations Department also established the Scam Public Education Office (SPEO) to enhance community awareness and engagement.
High Public Trust
In his address, Shanmugam highlighted that the level of trust Singaporeans have in the police is among the highest globally. According to the Institute of Policy Studies World Values Survey 2020, 87% of Singaporeans expressed confidence in the SPF. Furthermore, the 2022 Gallup Global Law and Order report found that 93% of Singapore respondents felt confident in the police, with 95% feeling safe walking alone at night.
Shanmugam contrasted this with findings from other developed countries, noting that public confidence in U.S. law enforcement stood at only 45% in 2022. He attributed Singapore’s high trust to the police’s neutrality and the government’s efforts to manage social issues, preventing “people versus police” scenarios seen elsewhere.
He also emphasized that Singapore’s strict stance on gun ownership has reduced violence and crime, allowing police to respond effectively without the constant fear of being shot. Fair remuneration for officers, alongside firm actions against misconduct, further strengthens public trust.
Shanmugam reiterated that the SPF takes allegations of officer wrongdoing seriously, as failing to act on genuine concerns would erode public trust. He noted that the percentage of potentially errant officers in recent years is low, with only 0.7% of the regular force facing disciplinary action.
“Thanks to our efforts in these areas, combined with the dedication and sacrifices of our officers, we are in a good position today,” he concluded.
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