S’pore Police Advices Public Not To Take Lifts With Strangers & Avoid Dimly Lit Places

There is an alarming new “trend” in Singapore: Molest cases are on the rise.

I’m wondering why now more than before? Is it the media we are consuming? Or are we getting too “kentang” (Westernized) and assuming that being a little “naughty” is perfectly acceptable? Or are students’ GPA getting better?

But anyway, the Singapore Police Force has released an advisory after seven different men being charged for outrage of modesty in seven separate incidents.

Precautions to Take

• Where possible, avoid taking lifts with strangers
• Always be aware of your surroundings
• Where possible, avoid poorly-lit or secluded areas
• Keep a lookout of suspicious person(s) eg someone staring awkwardly or pacing about unnecessarily
• Carry a Shrill Alarm (You can get an affordable one on q0010)

What to Do If You Do Get Molested

When an unfortunate incident like this occurs, it might be instinctual to freeze up and not know what to do.

The tips could help you ensure that the perpetrator is caught if something like this were to occur. *Touch Wood*

For starters, try to seek help from others who are in the area. You can also take note of defining features of the perpetrator such as facial features like moles, scars, skin tone, bald spots, height and build.

Also, take note of the person’s walking style, clothing, eyeglasses and items that they may be carrying such as backpacks and sling bags.

Call ‘999’ as soon as it is safe to do so to maximize the chances of the suspect getting caught.

More Tips to Protect Yourself

In the event of getting molested, make as much noise as possible. Shout and scream as loudly as possible. This very act can make the suspect nervous and flee, thus preventing possible further outrage of modesty.

Shouting and screaming can also alert others in the vicinity that a crime is taking place. Some good Samaritans may come to your rescue.

Also, if the perpetrator is making repeated advances, you may want to use keys or other sharp objects that you have on you to protect yourself.

It may also be a good idea to pick up some basic self-dense classes.

The extra few dollars may save you from an unnecessary experience.

Don’t Be Too Alarmed

ff course, the best defence is to avoid strangers in all secluded areas such as lifts and stairwells and be alert and look out for suspicious characters.

The Singapore Police Force will be working closely with stakeholders and the general community to deter and minimize the incidence of molest cases.

Moral of the story?

Terence Siow might be out there, but our men and women in blue will still catch them…even if their GPA is 5.0.