Measures to combat recent increase in cases of outrage of modesty and rape

Question:

Mr Vikram Nair: To ask the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs whether the Singapore Police Force is considering any measures to combat the recent increase in the number of cases of outrage of modesty and rape.

Answer:

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

1. Agencies, including the Singapore Police Force (SPF), have implemented a suite of measures to prevent offending, encourage reporting and improve victim support.

2. For instance, SPF has been working with schools to teach students to report their concerns and seek help from trusted adults. It has been working with the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) and social service agencies to provide social and em otional support for victims of violence, including sexual violence. Victim care services are also provided to victims of sexual offences during investigations.

3. Beyond the legal penalties, society’s approbation can also be a powerful deterrent against such crimes. SPF recently launched a public education campaign to drive home this message. The campaign will be rolled out across public spaces, public transport ne tworks, public entertainment outlets and schools.

4. Most importantly, members of the public who come across any sexual crimes should report them to the Police expeditiously, so that quick action can be taken against the offender, and he is prevented from preying on more victims.