Activation Triggers and Response Timelines for Police and Frontline Agencies When Minors Are Reported Missing or at Risk of Self-Harm

Question:

Dr Wan Rizal: To ask the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) what are the activation triggers and response timelines for Police and relevant frontline agencies when minors are reported missing or at risk of self-harm; (b) how is technology used to bring them to safety while safeguarding the privacy of the minors and others; and (c) what is the coverage of trauma-informed and suicide-intervention training for frontline officers.

Answer:

Mr K Shanmugam, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs:

1.  The Police follow up when vulnerable persons, which include young children, are reported missing or at risk of self- harm, and aim to arrive at the incident location within 15 minutes of the report. Other agencies, such as the Singapore Civil Defence Force, could also be activated to provide medical and operational assistance.

2. On the Member’s question on the use of technology - when Police receive reports on missing persons, for example, they will review relevant CCTV footages where they are available. Where the Police are able to identify a likely location, they may also deploy other resources for the search, including drones. In cases where the family provides consent to release the details of the missing person, the Police may issue appeals for information online to seek the public’s assistance.

3. Our frontline Police Officers are trained to handle incidents involving attempted suicide and persons experiencing trauma. Among others, the training covers trauma informed interaction to build trust and safety, which is crucial when dealing with vulnerable persons.