Police’s Efforts Against Bullying and Assaults Outside Temples Along Waterloo Mall

Question:

Ms Denise Phua Lay Peng: To ask the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs whether the Ministry can provide an update on the police efforts to patrol and effectively eradicate the bullying and assault incidents outside the temples along Waterloo Mall where illegal hawking is rife.

Answer:

Ms Sim Ann, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Home Affairs:

1. The Singapore Police Force (SPF) conducts regular patrols in the vicinity of the temples along Waterloo Street, especially during high congregation periods such as religious festivals. If they come across cases of bullying or assault, they will take action accordingly.

2. The SPF has also participated in joint operations with agencies like the Singapore Land Authority and the Singapore Food Agency. The Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth and Ministry of Social and Family Development are also involved when there are incidents involving charitable organisations or vulnerable individuals.

3. The regular presence of these agencies in the area has helped to largely maintain order in the area.