Police have taken action against 55 people involved in Merlion Park protest: S Iswaran

SINGAPORE — Police have taken action against 55 people involved in the illegal protest at the Merlion Park on May 8 this year.

Giving an update in Parliament today (July 4), Second Minister for Home Affairs S Iswaran said authorities are reviewing actions to be taken against the remaining four people.

Mr Iswaran said all those investigated for involvement in the protest are foreigners.

He was responding to a question by MP for Chua Chu Kang GRC Zaqy Mohamad who wanted to know why the demonstration by Malaysians was allowed to happen.

On May 8, a crowd of Malaysians gathered at the Merlion Park to protest against what they claimed were rigged elections in their country.

Mr Iswaran reiterated that while foreigners are allowed to work or live here, they have to abide by Singapore laws.

They should not import their domestic issues from their countries into Singapore and conduct activities which can disturb public order as there can be groups with opposing views.

Mr Iswaran explained that in dealing with such incidents, the primary consideration of the Police is to maintain public order and the safety of members of the public.

Police will need to ensure that actions taken are appropriate and do not affect the safety and security of innocent bystanders or result in an unnecessary escalation of the situation.

Mr Iswaran stressed those who break the law will be firmly dealt with.

This may include termination of their work passes and visas.

Non-Constituency MP Lina Chiam also asked if foreign politicians are allowed to conduct election campaign activities in Singapore.

Former Johor Menteri Besar Abdul Ghani Othman had visited Singapore during the campaigning period for the Malaysian general elections in May.

Mr Iswaran said foreigners including politicians should avoid actions that could be misconstrued, as had happened recently during the recent Malaysian general elections.

On May 17 in response to media queries and a police report on Mr Abdul Ghani allegedly canvassing for votes in Singapore, the authorities had clarified that Mr Abdul Ghani’s visit to Singapore in on May 2 was not an offence. CHANNEL NEWSASIA