Ian Tan Hanhonn
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) intends to do more to protect private security officers from harassment or abuse.
MHA made the announcement in a press release on 27 March 2020.
The ministry will look to make it an offense to harass and abuse private security officers who are on duty, under the Private Security Industry Act (PSIA) in 2021.
The harassment and abuse of private security officers is a serious offense, according to MHA.
Those who threaten, abuse or insult private security officers can currently be charged under the Protection from Harassment Act (POHA).
Those who use violence or behave disorderly can also be charged under the Miscellaneous Offences (Public Order and Nuisance) Act and face imprisonment.
The Security Industry Council (SIC) applauded the move in response to the announcement.
The SIC comprises the Union of Security Employees (USE), the Security Association Singapore (SAS) and the Association of Certified Security Agencies (ACSA).
The council added that the protection of the welfare and dignity of security officers is of paramount importance.
“This is especially so as officers not only perform day-to-day safety and protection duties, but also play a crucial frontline role in national emergencies such as the current COVID-19 situation,” said SIC.
NTUC Assistant Secretary-General Zainal Sapari, who had pushed for parliament to enhance protection for security officers also welcomed the move.
