Singapore ramps up security at key locations

SINGAPORE — Home Team agencies have beefed up security measures in Singapore, following the attacks in Manchester and Jakarta which happened a day apart earlier this week.

Checks and patrols have been stepped up at “key locations, the air, land and sea checkpoints, transport nodes, and (Singapore) waters”, said a spokesperson from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), in response to TODAY’s queries. “We will continue to monitor the developments closely and calibrate security measures according to the threat environment,” she added.

In a separate statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) strongly condemned the bomb attack at the Kampung Melayu Bus Terminal in East Jakarta on Wednesday, adding that Singapore stands ready to work with Indonesia to “bring those responsible for such reprehensible acts of terror to justice”.

Noting that the terror alert had been raised to the highest level of “critical” in the United Kingdom, the ministry also issued a travel notice for those visiting or residing there to be vigilant, particularly when they are in public places.

The UK government has enhanced security measures such as deploying military personnel at public spaces and events, and also increased police patrols at key locations. The MFA said Singaporeans should follow the instructions of the local authorities and remain alert to local security developments. They are also encouraged to register with the MFA and buy comprehensive travel insurance.

The MFA said there have been no reports of Singaporeans being directly affected or injured in the Jakarta incident, where suspected suicide bombers killed three police officers on duty, and injured 10 others. 

The ministry advised Singaporeans in Jakarta to keep in touch with their families and friends.

Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan wrote in a Facebook post that the “senseless and violent act of terror” had claimed innocent lives and injured others.

“We stand firmly in solidarity with Indonesia and its people during this difficult time,” he wrote. “This is a grim reminder that our region is not spared from the threat of terrorism. We must stay vigilant and united.”

The ministry extended its condolences to the families of the victims and wished the casualties a swift recovery.

The Singapore Embassy in Jakarta is also working with the Indonesian authorities to monitor the situation closely, the MFA added.

The blast at Manchester Arena happened after a concert by pop star Ariana Grande, killing 22, including children, and injured scores of others — the deadliest terrorist attack in Britain since 2005.

The MHA reiterated on Thursday that everyone has an important role to play in keeping Singapore safe. 

Members of the public who see suspicious persons or items should promptly alert the police by calling 999 or the Counter-Terrorism Centre at 1800-2626-473, a spokesperson said. They can also report such incidents via the SGSecure mobile app.

Singaporeans can eRegister with the MFA via (https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg/ or the MFA@SG App) so that information can be disseminated, should the need arise. 

Singaporeans in the UK who need urgent consular assistance can contact the London High Commission or the 24-hour MFA Duty Office at: 

Singapore High Commission in London
9 Wilton Crescent
Belgravia
London SW1X 8SP
Tel: +44 (0) 207 235 8315
Emergency no.: +44 (0) 771 034 8335
Email: singhc_lon [at] mfa.sg

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24-hour)
Tanglin, Singapore 248163
Tel: +65 6379 8800, +65 63798855
Email: mfa_duty_officer [at] mfa.gov.sg