Greater interconnectivity has heightened security threats: MP

SINGAPORE – The Republic’s ability to deal with transnational crimes and cybercrimes, and lone-wolf attacks were among the issues raised by several Members of Parliament (MPs) at the start of the Ministry of Home Affairs Committee of Supply (COS) debate today (March 5).

Mr Edwin Tong (Moulmein-Kallang GRC) pointed out that the influx of passengers and cargoes coming in and out of Singapore, as well as greater interconnectivity due to globalisation, have heightened security threats.

Thus, Singapore cannot afford to be complacent, he said, citing two security breaches at Woodlands Checkpoint last year.

In one incident, 64-year-old Tan Chu Seng was sentenced to 10 months’ jail and fined S$1,400 for driving through a security barrier, damaging government property and injuring an officer in the process.

Mr Hri Kumar Nair (Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC), noting that there has been an increase in cybercrimes, said there is a need for investigative officers to be equipped with the “requisite expertise and technological know-how”.

He wanted to know if Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean, who is also Home Affairs Minister, could elaborate on how police officers are trained to tackle Internet crime.

On terrorism, Mr Arthur Fong (West Coast GRC) questioned if there are ways to deal with “lone-wolf” terrorist acts, such as the deadly attack by a lone gunman on a Sydney cafe in December.

Ms Sylvia Lim (Aljunied GRC) pointed out that while the use of technology and social media by the police is cost-effective, it also has its share of pitfalls. They include police officers becoming “deskilled” as they rely a lot on technology, she added.

Dr Janil Puthucheary (Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC) wanted to know the steps that have been taken to improve recruitment and retention for the Home Team. He also questioned how older and experienced frontline officers will be supported and encouraged to stay in the profession.

The COS debate for the ministry will continue on Friday.