Covid-19: Woman to be charged with pulling down enforcement officer's mask in Marina Bay Sands clash

SINGAPORE — A couple will be charged in court on Friday (April 1) with public nuisance and failing to wear a mask properly while at Marina Bay Sands. The woman will also be charged with using criminal force by allegedly pulling down an enforcement officer's mask in a confrontation.

On Sept 11, 2021, the 54-year-old man and 47-year-old woman confronted three safe distancing ambassadors attached to the Singapore Tourism Board at Marina Bay Sands when they were advised to wear their masks properly, the police said in a statement on Thursday.

The couple refused to adhere to repeated advice from the enforcement officers and allegedly shouted repeatedly and gestured aggressively at the officers.

The woman allegedly pulled down one of the officers’ mask during the confrontation.

Anyone convicted of breaching Covid-19 laws may be jailed for up to six months, fined up to S$10,000, or both.

Those found guilty of public nuisance may be jailed up to three months, fined up to S$2,000, or both.

Abusive acts against enforcement officers are taken seriously and offenders will be dealt with in accordance with the law, added the police.

Individuals convicted of using criminal force to deter a public servant from the discharge of his duty may be jailed for up to four years, fined, or both.