Are our public spaces guarded against vehicular rampages?

Our civil defence and armed forces have, in mock exercises, demonstrated how effective they are in putting down acts of terrorism. These rehearsals start mostly with “terrorists” entering the scene wielding guns and bombs.

We are also reminded to be mindful of suspicious items left unattended in public places.

In view of recent attacks in Europe and the United States, one cannot help noticing the use of lorries, vans and cars as weapons of terror (Barcelona attack suspect shot dead by police; toll rises to 15; Aug 22)

I dread to think how easy it would be to employ similar methods in crowded spaces in Singapore. Imagine a lorry ploughing into eateries, such as in the open-air food street along Boon Tat Street, during evening hours.

Besides countering guns and bombs, we should assess how places such as eateries, bus stops and taxi stands can be guarded against vehicular rampages.