Singapore Police Force

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Template:Short description Template:Use Singapore English Template:Infobox law enforcement agency Template:Use dmy dates Template:Coord The Singapore Police Force (SPF) is the national and principal law enforcement agency responsible for the prevention of crime and law enforcement in Singapore. It is the country's lead agency against organised crime; human and weapons trafficking; cyber crime; as well as economic crimes that goes across domestic and international borders, but can be tasked to investigate any crime under the purview of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and is accountable to the Parliament of Singapore.<ref> Template:Cite web The Police Force Act, Chapter 235 of Singapore provides for the constitution, administration, powers and discipline of the force. </ref>

SPF's main geographical area of responsibilities covers the entire country, consisting of five regions which are further divided into 55 planning areas. The organisation has various staff departments with specific focuses. These include the Airport Police Division (APD), which covers policing of Singapore's main civilian airports of Changi and Seletar, or the Police Coast Guard (PCG), which protects and enforces areas under Singapore's territorial waters and its ports.

Formerly known as the Republic of Singapore Police (RSP; Template:Langx), the SPF is a uniformed organisation. The SPF has declared its mission and vision as to "prevent, deter and detect crime to ensure the safety and security of Singapore".<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> It is Singapore's point of contact for foreign agencies such as Interpol and other international law enforcement agencies. The organisational structure of the SPF is split between staff and line functions, which is roughly modelled after the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).

The SPF currently consists of sixteen staff departments, four specialist staff departments, eighteen specialist and line units as well as seven land divisions. Its headquarters are located at one of the blocks of the New Phoenix Park building in the Novena district, which is located directly adjacent to a twin block occupied by the MHA.<ref> Template:Cite web </ref> Situated within the headquarters are the Police Heritage Centre (PHC), which is open to the public and showcases the SPF's history through its various exhibits and multimedia displays.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

As of 2023, the SPF has a strength of approximately 11,500 personnel: 10,400 sworn officers and 1,100 civilian staff. The SPF has generally been credited as being the forefront in keeping crime in Singapore low, as well as being relatively transparent in its policing.<ref>Template:Cite journal</ref> Accordingly, Singapore has been considered as being one of least corrupt and safest countries in the world.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The SPF also works closely with the Internal Security Department (ISD) and the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB). As of 2022, the current Minister of Home Affairs is K. Shanmugam, while the current commissioner of the SPF is Hoong Wee Teck.<ref name="OCP"/>

History

Template:Main

File:Jurong Police Division tower.jpg
The headquarters of Jurong Police Division, with the Singapore Police Force crest prominently displayed

Early years

The Singapore Police Force was founded in 1820, starting with just 11 men under the command of Francis James Bernard, the son-in-law of William Farquhar.<ref name="challenge">Farquhar to Raffles, 5 May 1820, L.10, Straits Settlement Records.</ref> With no background nor knowledge on policing, Bernard had to work from scratch, as well as occasionally turning to Farquhar for help. In addition, he held multiple roles as magistrate, chief jailer, harbour master, marine storekeeper, as well as personal assistants to Farquhar. Farquhar informed Raffles that he had provisionally introduced licences for opium and alcohol sales that would raise $650 per month, with $300 of this sum being used to run a small police department.<ref>Farquhar to Raffles, 2 November 1819, L. 10, Straits Settlement Records.</ref>

As the department took form, Bernard became in charge of a writer, one jailor, one jemadar (sergeant) and eight peada (constables) by May 1820.<ref name="challenge" /> Raffles approved these arrangements by August 1820 and cemented the formal establishment of a police force in Singapore.<ref>Jennings to Farquhar, 15 August 1820, L. 4, Straits Settlement Records.</ref> Manpower constraints meant that the men had to perform a wide range of roles, and required the help of headmen among the various ethnic communities to maintain orderliness on the streets.

Many laws that were enacted during this time remains in force today. These include the passing of Singapore's first arms law in March 1823, which heavily restricts the ability to bear arms. Nearly two centuries later, these anti-arms laws continue to be strictly enforced, resulting in a society relatively free from firearms-related criminal offences.<ref> Template:Cite web </ref>

1965–present

The SPF remains the sole policing force in Singapore after its independence. The country has one of the lowest murder rates in the world, as well as the lowest firearm-related death rates.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref name="SGP">Template:Cite web</ref> The major crimes that tend to affect the Singaporean populace in the 21st century are usually cybercrimes, such as scams that are often based overseas. In 2020, cybercrimes made up almost half of all crimes in Singapore.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

In 2025, Singapore police have investigated over 850 scam cases that have resulted in financial losses totaling approximately SG$15.4 million. These scams involve phishing, impersonation, and fraudulent online transactions, targeting individuals and businesses across the country. Authorities are actively working to identify the perpetrators, recover the stolen funds, and raise public awareness about scam prevention.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

Organisational structure

Leadership

Rank and appointment Abbreviation Office holder
Commissioner of Police CP Hoong Wee Teck<ref name="OCP">Template:Cite web</ref>
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Policy) DC(P) How Kwang Hee<ref name="OCP"/>
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Investigations & Intelligence) DC(I&I) Zhang Weihan<ref name="OCP"/>
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) DC(Ops) Alvin Moh<ref name="OCP"/>

Staff departments

Department Abbreviation Area of responsibility Ref
Administration & Finance Department A&F Administrative, finance and procurement services <ref>Template:Cite web

</ref>

Centre for Protective Security CPS Training and maintenance of protective security standards <ref>Template:Cite web

</ref>

Community Partnership Department CPD Community engagement and crime prevention <ref>

Template:Cite web </ref>

Inspectorate and Compliance Office InCo Internal audit and risk management <ref>

Template:Cite web </ref>

Internal Affairs Office IAO Handling of internal investigations <ref>

Template:Cite web </ref>

International Cooperation Department ICD Maintenance of relations with foreign law enforcement agencies as well as handling transnational and international police operations <ref>

Template:Cite web </ref>

Manpower Department MPD Human resource management and recruitment programmes <ref>

Template:Cite web </ref>

Online Criminal Harms Act Office OCHA
Operations Department OPD Responsible for operational matters including the development of doctrines and standard operating procedures; oversees the Police Operations Command Centre <ref>

Template:Cite web </ref>

Planning and Organisation Department P&O Strategic planning and organisational development <ref>

Template:Cite web </ref>

Police Regulatory Department PRD Processing and enforcement of various police licenses <ref>

Template:Cite web </ref>

Police Logistics Department PLD Procurement, distribution and maintenance of equipment <ref>

Template:Cite web </ref>

Police National Service Department PNSD Human resource management of Police National Servicemen <ref>

Template:Cite web </ref>

Public Affairs Department PAD Public relations and media relations <ref>

Template:Cite web </ref>

Service Delivery Department SDD Handling of public feedback and service quality affairs <ref>

Template:Cite web </ref>

Training & Capability Development Department TCDD Development of training policy, methodologies and training safety <ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Volunteer Special Constabulary VSC Human resource management of volunteer police officers <ref>

Template:Cite web </ref>

Specialist staff departments

Department Abbreviation Area of responsibility Ref
Commercial Affairs Department CAD Detection and investigation of financial crime <ref>

Template:Cite web </ref>

Criminal Investigation Department CID Primary detective agency and investigative body <ref>

Template:Cite web </ref>

Ops-Tech Department OTD Development of Science & Technology <ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Police Intelligence Department PID Gathering and processing of police intelligence <ref>

Template:Cite web </ref>

Police Psychological Services Department PPSD Handling psychological matters <ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

Specialist and land units

Units Abbreviation Area of responsibility Ref
Ang Mo Kio Police Division 'F' Division Ang Mo Kio, Serangoon, Hougang, Sengkang, Punggol, Seletar
Bedok Police Division 'G' Division Changi, Pasir Ris, Tampines, Bedok, Paya Lebar, Marine Parade, Marina East, Geylang
Central Police Division 'A' Division Downtown Core, Museum, Outram, Singapore River, Marina South, Straits View, Rochor, Kallang, Bukit Merah East
Clementi Police Division 'D' Division Clementi, Queenstown, Jurong East, Bukit Merah West
Jurong Police Division 'J' Division Jurong West, Choa Chu Kang, Bukit Panjang, Bukit Batok, Boon Lay, Pioneer, Tuas
Tanglin Police Division 'E' Division Bukit Merah, Bukit Timah, River Valley, Tanglin, Orchard, Novena, Toa Payoh, Bishan
Woodlands Police Division 'L' Division Yishun, Sembawang, Woodlands, Mandai, Kranji
Airport Police Division APD Changi Airport, Seletar Airport, Changi Airfreight Centre, Airport Logistics Park
Gurkha Contingent GC Special Forces/Counter-Terrorist Unit/Paramilitary Unit <ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Home Team School of Criminal Investigation HTSCI Conduct trainings and courses for criminal investigators
Police Coast Guard PCG Providing law enforcement and maritime law in and around Singapore waters
Police Operations Command Centre POCC Command and control of day-to-day incidents <ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Public Transport Security Command TRANSCOM Protecting the public transport network
Protective Security Command ProCom Protection of key installations and security at key national events <ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Police Security Command SecCom Security and protection of government officials, president, prime minister, heads of state and VIP.
Special Operations Command SOC Public Disorder Unit/Special Tactical and Rescue/K-9/Crisis Negotiation Unit/SWTT
Traffic Police TP Enforcement of traffic laws
Training Command TRACOM Training of police officers and involved in parades

Land divisions are given designations according to the NATO phonetic alphabet.

Defunct land divisions include:

  • Toa Payoh Police Division ('B' Division), merged with Tanglin Police Division
  • Geylang Police Division ('C' Division), merged with Bedok Police Division

Finances

The Singapore Police Force receives the highest budget allocation annually as compared to the various departments of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), typically accounting for about 50% of its annual budget. For the fiscal year of 2013 (for the year beginning 1 April 2013), S$3.89 billion was budgeted to the MHA, of which 47.8% or S$1.86 billion was allocated for the Police Programme. Actual expenses in the 2013 fiscal year were S$2.04 billion, of which S$1.88 billion was spent on operating expenditure (against the budgeted S$1.79 billion) and S$159.1 million on development expenditure (budgeted at $71.83 million).<ref name=MHAbudgetannex2015> Template:Cite web </ref> Manpower costs amounting to S$1.16 billion continue to dominate the SPF's expenditure, accounting for 61.7% of its operating expenditure and 56.9% of total expenditure in FY2013.<ref name="MHAbudgetannex2015"/>

The latest budget for fiscal year 2015, S$2.47 billion was allocated to the Police Programme,<ref name="MHAbudgetannex2015"/> or 49.5% of MHA's total budget of S$5 billion (the Ministry of Defence, in comparison, received a S$13.12 billion budget allocation).<ref> Template:Cite web </ref> This includes S$2.26 billion for Operating Expenditure and $210.93 million for Development Expenditure. The main Development Expenditures expected in FY2015 included the construction of new buildings such as the Woodlands Police Divisional HQ as well as the acquisition of new patrol craft for the Police Coast Guard and the installation of police cameras at more HDB blocks and multi-storey car parks.<ref name=MHAbudget2015> Template:Cite web </ref>

Manpower

Template:As of, the total strength of the force stands at 39,800.<ref name=":1">Template:Cite web</ref> Manpower trends in recent years are as follows:

Year ended Regulars Civilians PNSF PNSmen VSC Total Refs
31 March 2013 8,617 1,423 4,853 24,248 1,212 40,353 <ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
31 March 2014 8,783 1,544 4,704 25,492 1,076 41,599 <ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
31 March 2015 9,104 1,566 4,623 26,210 1,053 42,556 <ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
31 March 2016 9,482 1,601 4,911 27,151 1,057 44,202 <ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
31 March 2017 9,617 1,593 5,043 27,839 1,084 45,176 <ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
31 March 2018 9,591 1,632 4,766 27,245 1,250 44,484 <ref name=SPFAnnual2018>Template:Cite web</ref>
31 March 2019 9,636 1,627 4,488 27,691 1,353 44,795 <ref name="SPFAnnual20192">Template:Cite web</ref>
31 March 2020 9,571 1,135 4,685 26,459 1,266 43,116 <ref name=":1" />

Regulars

Regulars, or uniformed, full-time officers, constitute about 20% of the police's total workforce and number approximately 9,000 in strength. Basic entry requirements for police officers include normal fitness levels, good eyesight, and at least five passes in the GCE Ordinary level or a NITEC from the Institute of Technical Education, although those with lower qualifications may still be considered.<ref> Template:Cite web </ref> Those joining the senior police officers require a basic degree from a recognised university.<ref> Template:Cite web </ref> Alternatively, police officers from the junior ranks may also be considered for promotion into the senior ranks.<ref> Template:Cite web </ref> Officers serving in the force as national servicemen are also regularly considered for absorption into the regular scheme. Basic training for all officers are conducted at the Home Team Academy, under the purview of the Police Training Command. It takes about six months<ref> Template:Cite web </ref> and nine months<ref> Template:Cite web </ref> to train a new police officer and senior police officer respectively.

As is the case with many other civil service positions in Singapore, the salaries of police officers are reviewed in accordance to market rates. Salaries are kept competitive as part of anti-corruption measures. Gross starting salaries for police officers may range from S$1,820 to S$2,480,<ref name="PO career"> Template:Cite web </ref> and that of senior police officers from S$3,400 to S$4,770,<ref name="SO career"> Template:Cite web </ref> depending on entry qualifications, relevant/useful work experiences and National Service.

Police officers commence their careers as Sergeants (Full GCE 'A' level or Diploma holders),<ref name="PO career"/> while senior police officers start as Inspectors (bachelor's degree). Reviews of an officer's performance for promotion consideration are conducted annually.

Police National Servicemen (PNS)

When full-time National Service (NS) was first introduced in Singapore in 1967, it was initially solely aimed and geared towards the building-up of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). Meanwhile, in Singapore Police Force, NS was not extended to that of compulsory full-time service, with police NS being only part-time, unlike that of the SAF. There was little urgency and pressure for the police force to increase its overall manpower-strength until the Laju incident of 1974, Singapore's first encounter with international terrorism, demonstrated the need for additionally trained reserve-officers who could be called up at short-notice in the event of a national crisis or a major and serious public emergency. Singapore's full-time National Service policy was thus extended to the Singapore Police Force in 1975, which stemmed from the then-primary aim of guarding and protecting key and vital public installations, such as sensitive ones like power substations and petrochemical industries, and to act as a swift-response reserve unit. Subsequent expansion of this NS scheme, along with changing security needs and requirements and the trend in outsourcing key-installation protection (such as to the various local auxiliary police forces) has expanded the role of police national servicemen to more varied functions, which may range from mainstream administration and operations (such as the role of Staff Assistants (SAs) based in offices), to basic police investigation (like the Ground Response Force (GRF) of the SPF's Land Divisions) and front line policing (as seen in the Police Coast Guard), alongside their regular counterparts.

Volunteers

Template:Main Formed in 1946, The Volunteer Special Constabulary (VSC) is an important component of the Singapore Police Force, contributing more than fifty years of volunteer service to the nation.<ref> Template:Cite web </ref>

The VSC is composed of volunteers from all walks of life in Singapore, from businessmen to blue-collar executives to even bus captains, bonded with the same aspiration to serve the nation by complementing the Singapore Police Force. They are vested with equal powers of a police officer to enforce law and order in Singapore. VSC Officers don the same police uniform and patrol the streets, participate in anti-drug operations and sometimes even high-speed sea chases.

Previously headquartered at the Eu Tong Sen Street Police Station and Toa Payoh Police Station, it relocated to the new Police Cantonment Complex in the year 2000.

Civilian staff

Civilian staff in the Police Force are deployed in areas such as technology, logistics, human resource, and administrative and financial services as well as investigation, planning and intelligence.<ref name="SPF Civilian careers"> Template:Cite web </ref> The civilian staff schemes fall under the general civil service schemes managed by the Public Service Division. These schemes include:

  • Commercial Affairs Officer (CAO) Scheme for Accountancy, Law, Business Administration, Business or Economics degree holders
    • Commercial Affairs Officer
  • Home Team Specialist (HTS) Scheme for degree and diploma holders
    • Home Team Specialist
  • Home Affairs Senior Executive (HASE) Scheme for degree holders
    • Management Executive (MX)
  • Management Support Scheme for diploma holders and below
    • Management Support Officer (MSO)
    • Corporate Support Officer (CSO)
  • Technical Support Scheme for diploma holders and below
    • Technical Support Officer (TSO)

The civilisation of non-core police functions has accelerated over the years in order to free up additional manpower for redeployment into Police Divisions. Other changes include the deployment of contract staff through organisations such as Ministry of Finance's VITAL.org for administrative staff and partners such as ST Engineering and Cyber Security Agency for technical support.

Staff welfare

  • Aquatic Club
  • Home United Basketball Club (HUBC)
  • Home United Football Club (HUFC)
  • JOM – Clubhouse for Police Officers
  • POLWEL Co-operative Society Limited
  • Police Sports Association (PSA)
  • Police Welfare Division
  • Senior Police Officers' Mess (SPOM)
  • Singapore Police Co-operative Society Limited

Uniforms

File:Gurkha IOC 1.jpg
Gurkha police officers

Template:Main Dark blue is the organisational colour of the Singapore Police Force and has remained so continuously since 1969. Derivatives of the standard blue uniform (collectively called the No. 3 uniform) was adopted for specialised forces and for all officers in various occasions which calls for more formal or casual attire. The Traffic Police Department adopted a short-sleeved white tunic, dark blue breeches, a black leather Sam Browne belt, and riding boots for its officers performing mobile squad duties. A white crash helmet is worn when on the move, while a new dark blue jockey cap with chequered white and dark blue patterns around its circumference is worn when convenient while performing static duty. Members of the Vigilante Corps are also attired by a white short-sleeved top similar in design to the dark blue version for normal officers, gold-coloured buttons and badges, and a dark blue beret in place of the peaked cap.

Combat uniforms have also been adopted for specialist units such as those from the Special Operations Command and the Police Coast Guard (PCG), collectively known as the No. 4 uniforms. These involve the replacement of metal buttons with sewn-on plastic ones, the avoidance of all other metallic accruements which are deemed potentially hazardous to the officer or to others and the use of long-sleeved shirts.

The SPF introduced new uniforms made of 98% polyester and 2% spandex with better stretchable, perspiration absorption, and faster drying characteristics, as "part of ongoing efforts to improve officers' operational effectiveness and support them in their work". The word "police" is embroidered above the name tag of the new uniforms and the metallic buttons replaced with concealed plastic buttons for better comfort to allow officers put on the body vests over their uniforms. Riveted buttons are also fixed on the shoulders to allow the attachment of a body worn camera.<ref> Template:Cite news </ref>

Ranks

The following rank structure is used throughout the police force:<ref> Template:Cite web </ref>

Ranks of the Singapore Police Force
Rank Commissioner of Police (CP) Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police (SAC) Assistant Commissioner of Police (AC) Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Police (DAC) Superintendent of Police (SUPT) Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)
Insignia File:SPF-SO-CP.svg File:SPF-SO-DCP.svg File:SPF-SO-SAC.svg File:SPF-SO-AC.svg File:SPF-SO-DAC.svg File:SPF-SO-SUPT.svg File:SPF-SO-DSP.svg
Rank Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Inspector (INSP) Station Inspector (SI) Senior Staff Sergeant (SSS) Sergeant (SGT) Corporal (CPL) Constable (PC/SC)
Insignia File:SPF-SO-ASP.svg File:SPF-SO-INSP.svg File:SPF-PO-SI.svg File:SPF-PO-SSSGT.svg File:SPF-PO-SGT.svg File:SPF-PO-CPL.svg File:SPF-PO-SC.svg

The rank of corporal (CPL) was abolished in 1972, but reinstated in 1976. In 1997, the location of all rank devices was shifted from the sleeves to the shoulder epaulets except for the Gurkha Contingent. Also in the same year, the station inspector rank insignia was changed from collar pips to a coat of arms of Singapore with upward-pointing chevrons above and an arc below, a design similar to that of the warrant officers of the Singapore Armed Forces, while the rank of senior station inspector (SSI) was also introduced. In 1998, the senior station inspector (2) (SSI(2)) rank was introduced, and changes were made to the SI, SSI, and SSI(2) rank designs. The rank of lance corporal was abolished in 2002. In 2006, the Gurkha Contingent adopted embroidered ranks as part of an overhaul of its combat dress, but are worn on the right chest pocket.

In July 2016, a revamped rank overhaul was done with the retirement of the ranks of staff sergeant, senior station inspector (1) and senior station inspector (2), as well as the abolishment of the separation line between junior officers and senior officers, to unify a unified rank-scheme.<ref> Template:Cite news </ref> In addition, the sergeant rank has three different grades noted by a number from 1 to 3 placed in parentheses and suffixed to the rank abbreviation; namely, SGT(1), SGT(2), and SGT(3).<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

Former ranks

Rank Senior station inspector (2) Senior station inspector (1) Staff sergeant Chief inspector Lance corporal Police constable
Insignia File:SPF-PO-SSI2.svg File:SPF-PO-SSI.svg File:SPF-PO-SSGT.svg File:SPF CIP.png File:SPF LCP.png File:SPF-PO-PC.svg
Notes Abolished in 2016 Abolished in 2016 Abolished in 2016 Abolished in 2002 for all apart from the Gurkha Contingent.

Equipment

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Weapons

Police officers in the various divisions are armed when conducting regular uniformed patrols and plainclothes duties. Officers from different units are issued with different weapons.

The five-shot .38 Taurus Model 85 with 3-inch barrel featuring a laser sight by Crimson Trace is the standard issued sidearm of the Singapore Police Force with 10 rounds of ammunition. In 2015, the SPF purchased a number of CZ P-07 semi-automatic pistols. From 2016, selected officers were issued with the pistols as a trial. In 2019, it was announced that the Glock 19 was chosen as a replacement to the Taurus revolver. In addition to the use of the handguns, the police also use the Heckler & Koch MP5 sub-machine gun and the Remington 870 shotgun.

Extendable batons were initially used by specialist units such as Security Command and Special Operations Command, however, it has since been used by officers from other front-line units, replacing the Monadnock PR-21 side-handle baton. Sabre Red pepper spray canisters are exclusively equipped to the officers of Police Coast Guard and Police Tactical Unit. A pair of handcuffs is issued to the officers as restraints.

The Taser X26E stun gun was procured in the late 2000s and is part of the officers' equipment, which provides another non-lethal means of subduing suspects. Despite safety concerns due to incidents experienced by foreign police forces, the weapon was deemed suitable for use by trained personnel, and was rolled out across other NPCs. In 2018, the Taser X26E was replaced with the X26P model.

Model Image Variants Calibre Origin Notes References
Pistols
CZ 75 File:CZ SP-O1 Shadow Line pistol.jpg CZ P-07 9x19mm Parabellum Template:Flag Currently on limited trials with selected regular officers.
Glock File:GLOCK 17 Gen 4 Pistol MOD 45160305.jpg Glock 19 (Gen 5) 9x19mm Parabellum Template:Flag Standard issue for all regular officers. To replace the Taurus Model 85.
SIG Sauer File:SIG P226 Legion .jpg SIG Sauer P226 Legion 9x19mm Parabellum Template:Flag/Template:Flag Used exclusively by the Special Tactics and Rescue unit of the Special Operations Command <ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Heckler & Koch USP File:First-year H&K USP 9mm (32415150000) modified.png USP Compact 9x19mm Parabellum Template:Flag Used by the Police Tactical Unit of the Special Operations Command and Criminal Investigation Department
Sphinx 3000 File:S3000forWikipedia.jpg Sphinx 3000 9×19mm Parabellum Template:Flag Used exclusively by the Special Tactics and Rescue unit of the Special Operations Command
Taurus Model 85 File:Taurus Model 85.jpg Model 85 .38 Special Template:Flag Phased out for regular officers. However, it continues to be a standard issue sidearm for officers of the Special Constabulary (full-time National Servicemen and Operationally Ready National Servicemen) and Volunteer Special Constabulary. <ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Shotguns
Remington 870
File:M870mcs.jpg
 870 MCS
870 Police Magnum 		12 gauge Template:Flag Used by Gurkha Contingent, the Police Coast Guard's Special Task Squadron and the Special Tactics and Rescue of the Special Operations Command.
Benelli M3 File:Benelli M3 Super 90.jpg 12 gauge Template:Flag Used by the Special Task Squadron of the Police Coast Guard.
Submachine Guns
Heckler & Koch MP5 File:MP5.jpg MP5A3
MP5A2
MP5K-PDW 		9x19mm Parabellum Template:Flag Standard sub-machine gun used by Protective Security Command, the Police Security Command, the Police Coast Guard, Special Operations Command and divisional Emergency Response Teams
Angstadt Arms MDP-9 MDP-9 Gen 2 9x19mm Parabellum Template:Flag Angstadt Arms to supply 2100 MDP-9s, 650 FX training variants, including suppressors and integrated support and logistics to the SPF for a 3-year period.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Assault Rifles
FN SCAR FN MK 16 CQC
FN MK 16 LB 		5.56×45mm NATO Template:Flag Standard assault rifle used by Gurkha Contingent, Police Security Command and the Special Operations Command
Colt M4 Advanced Piston Carbine File:M4A1 ACOG.png Colt LE6940P 5.56×45mm NATO Template:Flag Used by the Police Coast Guard and the Protective Security Command.
SAR 21 File:SAR 21 (cropped).png SAR21 5.56×45mm NATO Template:Flag Used as a ceremonial rifle by the Police Guard-of-Honour Contingent for National Day Parades.
M16 File:M16A1 brimob.jpg M16S1 5.56×45mm NATO Template:Flag/Template:Flag Phased out from frontline use. Currently used for ceremonial purposes only.
Machine Guns
FN MAG File:FN MAG white background.jpg STK MAG 60.20 7.62×51mm NATO Template:Flag Used by the Gurkha Contingent and the Police Coast Guard. Mounted on PCG boats.
FN Minimi
File:FN MINIMI Standard Right.jpg
 Minimi Para 5.56×45mm NATO Template:Flag Used by Gurkha Contingent.
STK 50MG File:CIS 50 HMG.jpg STK 50MG .50 BMG Template:Flag Used by PCG. Mounted on STK ADDER RCWS onboard Patrol Interdiction Boats and other PCG boats.
M2 Browning File:PEO Browning M2 HB Machine Gun.jpg FN M2HB-QCB .50 BMG Template:Flag Used by PCG. Mounted on STK ADDER RCWS onboard Patrol Interdiction Boats.
Sniper Rifles
Accuracy International Arctic Warfare File:Accuracy International Arctic Warfare - Psg 90 G24.png Arctic Warfare Police 7.62×51mm NATO Template:Flag Used by STAR and Gurkha Contingent snipers.
Grenade Launchers
Heckler & Koch HK69A1 File:HK69A1 40 kranaattipistooli 2002 Lippujuhlan päivä 2014.JPG HK69A1 40 mm grenade Template:Flag Used by Police Tactical Unit of the Police Special Operations Command.
Autocannons
M242 Bushmaster File:US Navy 111231-N-KS651-967 A Mk 38 MOD 2 25mm machine gun system aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) ejects casings d.jpg Mk 38 Mod 2 25 mm caliber Template:Flag Used by the Police Coast Guard. Mounted on the Typhoon Weapon Station onboard PCG boats.
20mm Oerlikon File:20mm gun.jpg 20mm caliber Template:Flag Used by the Police Coast Guard. Mounted onboard PCG boats.
Non-Lethals
TASER X26 File:Police issue X26 TASER-white.jpg X26P Electrodes Template:Flag Use by the Ground Response Force.

Retired Weapons

  • Sterling Mk IV SMG
  • Sten Mk IV SMG
  • Lee-Enfield No.4 Mk II bolt-action rifle and jungle carbine
  • FN FAL / L1A1 Self-Loading Rifle
  • Webley Mk IV .38 revolver
  • Uzi SMG
  • Mini Uzi carbine
  • Federal Riot Gun
  • Smith and Wesson Model 36 3" Revolver and 2" Hammer Shroud Revolver
  • H&K P7 (limited use)
  • Browning HP (limited use)
  • Glock 34 (Police Shooting Team circa 1995)
  • CP Truncheon
  • M1 Carbine

Vehicles

Template:See also

File:SPF Fast Response Car QX-1211Z participating NDP.jpg
Chevrolet Cruze Fast Response
File:(SGP-Singapore) Singapore Police Force Toyota RAV4 QX2976T 2024-12-30.jpg
Toyota RAV4

Land division officers typically patrol and respond to calls in vehicles known as the Fast Response Car (FRC).<ref> Template:Cite news </ref> Car models that have been used by the SPF include the Subaru Impreza TS 1.6.<ref name="SPF's New Fleet Hits the Road">Template:Cite web</ref>

In 2005, the SPF introduced the new Fast Response Vehicle (FRV),<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> consisting of modified Toyota Hi-Lux sport utility vehicles with a back compartment to carry equipment.<ref name="SPF's New Fleet Hits the Road"/>

In 2009, the SPF introduced Forward Command Vehicles.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> These were replaced in 2017 by Division Command Vehicles with greater mobility designed to enhance command, control and coordination.<ref name=":0"> Template:Cite news </ref> In addition, the SPF introduced new unmanned aerial vehicles with red and blue siren lights, a searchlight, a high-definition camera and an audio warning system. The UAVs are controlled by two-man teams (consisting of a pilot and a safety officer) and are designed to conduct search and rescue operations, attending public order incidents, traffic management, hostage situations and crowd monitoring.<ref name=":0" />

Police from the Community Policing Units may also patrol in residential neighbourhoods on bicycles.<ref> Template:Cite news </ref> At the 2007 Singapore National Day Parade, the Singapore Police Force unveiled a Tenix S600 APC (Armored Personnel Carrier) had been purchased for its operations for the Special Operations Command,Template:Citation needed and in NDP 2015, the Achleitner HMV Survivor and the Gurkha MPV by Terradyne Armored Vehicles Inc was unveiled.Template:Citation needed

The various specialist units may also make use of other specialised equipment specific to their scope of duty

Other vehicles used by the various units include:

Land Divisions

Make and Model Types In service Notes
BMW F30 325d M Sport Saloon 2018–present Only used by the Traffic Police Expressway Patrol Unit
Chevrolet Cruze NB 1.6D Saloon 2016–present
Chevrolet Captiva 2.4 LT Crossover SUV 2015–present
Ford Everest UR SUV 2010–present
Hyundai Avante HD 1.6 Saloon 2010–present
Hyundai Elantra MD 1.6 Saloon 2014–present
Hyundai Sonata NF 2.0 Saloon 2011–present
Hyundai TL Tucson FL 1.6 GLS Crossover SUV 2020–present Next-Generation Fast Response Car
Hyundai Santa Fe Crossover SUV 2018–present Used by ERT(Emergency Response Team)
Mazda 3 1.5 Skyactiv-G Sedan 2020–present Currently only used for follow-up investigations.
Subaru Impreza GD Saloon 2006–present Currently only used for follow-up investigations.
Toyota Corolla Altis 1.6 (E120) Saloon 2005–present Currently only used for follow-up investigations.
Toyota Corolla Altis 1.6 (E140) Saloon 2009–present
Toyota Corolla (E110) Saloon 2002–present Only used for follow-up investigations.
Toyota RAV4 2.0 Crossover SUV 2022–present Next-Generation Fast Response Car
Volvo S80 T5 2.0 Saloon 2012–present Only used by the Traffic Police Expressway Patrol Unit

Police Security Command

  • Volvo XC60 – SUV
  • Volvo S90 – Saloon
  • Volvo S80 – Saloon
  • Mitsubishi Pajero – SUV

Traffic Police

  • BMW R1250RT-P – Motorcycle <ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
  • Yamaha Diversion XJ900P – Motorcycle
  • Volvo S80 – Saloon
  • Subaru Impreza – Saloon
  • BMW 325d – Saloon
  • Iveco Daily – Van
  • Polestar 2 -Liftback

Special Operations Command

Make and Model Type In service Notes
Tenix Defence S600 APC 2006–present Used by Special Tactics and Rescue Unit.
Achleitner Tactical Strike Vehicle APC 2022–present Used by Special Operations Command
Mercedes-Benz Atego 1023A Lorry 2019–present Used by Police Tactical Unit
MAN TGA 26.320 Lorry 2010–present Forward Command Vehicle.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 516 CDI Van 2015–present Used by Police Tactical Unit and Special Tactics and Rescue.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 416 CDI Van 2010–present Used by Police Dog Unit
Toyota Land Cruiser SUV 2010–present Used by Police Tactical Unit
Mitsubitshi Pajero SUV 2010–present Used by Special Tactics and Rescue
BMW F800 GS Motorcycle 2016–present Used by Rapid Deployment Troops

Gurkha Contingent

Make and Model Type In service Notes
Terradyne Armored Vehicles Gurkha MPV APC 2015–present
Franz-Achleitner HMV Survivor I APC 2015–present
Land Rover Defender Bullfighter APC 2013–present Anti-riot van.

Defunct divisions and establishments

  • Old Police Academy (Template:Coord) – vacated in 2006, relocated to Old Choa Chu Kang Road as part of the Home Team Academy, leaving behind the Police National Service provost unit and Traffic Police driving test school. The accommodation barracks and training facilities of the Old Police academy currently houses the training departments for all auxiliary police forces in Singapore.
  • Geylang Police Division (Template:Coord) defunct 'C' Division HQ – closed and vacated in 2000, areas of responsibility was divided between 'A', 'F' & 'G' Divisions. Station's status – Currently in use by Geylang NPC under 'G' Bedok Police Division and by Public Transport Security Command.
  • Toa Payoh Police Division (Template:Coord) defunct 'B' Division HQ – closed and vacated in 1988, areas of responsibility was divided between 'E' & 'F' Divisions. Station was refurbished and is currently in use by Security Command.
  • Police Radio Division (01°16′59″N 103°50′29″E) defunct "R" Division. Responsible for dispatching quick response "R" Division cars. Closed 1990s.

Land Divisions

Police Coast Guard

Dealing with offences committed by officers

Police officers are governed by the Police Force Act (Chapter 235)<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> and its Police Regulations (Chapter 235, Section 28 and 117)<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> of the Singapore Statutes.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The disciplinary offences can be found in its schedule.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> Misfeasance and malfeasance such as blue wall of silence, conduct prejudicial to good order and discipline, corruption, misconduct and malicious prosecution<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> are referred to the Internal Affairs Office (IAO).<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC) can be consulted to advise the police on its disciplinary proceedings.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> Police officers can whistleblow their colleagues' official misconducts and wrongdoings by filing official police reports themselves to officially open investigation papers against other officers.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="ReferenceA">Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="terminalstealingcase">Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> Full-time police national servicemen are also subjected to the Police (Special Constabulary) Regulations (Chapter 235, Section 85).<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

SPF HQ spokesperson routinely issues official statements stating that its officers are not only expected to uphold the law, but also to maintain the highest standards of conduct and integrity.<ref name="ReferenceA"/> The spokesperson added that SPF deals severely with officers who break the law, including charging them in court.<ref name="terminalstealingcase"/> Also, SPF usually commence disciplinary proceedings against the officers involved, and as well as suspend them pending internal investigations.

Notable cases

In March 1976,<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> one of Singapore's top prominent senior lawyers, the late Subhas Anandan, was arrested by a corrupt policeman for suspected involvement in a secret society under the Criminal Law (Temporary Provisions) Act.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> He was remanded without trial in a prison for a few months. Subhas was exonerated and acquitted in November of the same year, following an investigation probe by the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau.<ref name="Esquire">Template:Cite news</ref>

On 10 July 2013, ex-policeman Senior Staff Sergeant Iskandar Rahmat — a 14-year veteran award-winning investigation officer — killed a car workshop owner and the man's son, and has since been on the death row from 2017 onward, after failing in his appeal and president clemency against the death sentence. The case was known as the Kovan double murders in Singapore media. On 5 February 2025, Iskandar was executed after his appeals to court & clemency to the president unsuccessful.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

On 21 July 2023, police sergeant Uvaraja Gopal committed suicide following workplace harassment and racial discrimination.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> He had a history of mentally unstable behaviour, leading to him being relieved of carrying firearms in February 2023.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> He was being investigated after allegedly assaulting his brother a few days prior, and a report was filed by his mother saying she feared for her safety. The case garnered national attention and outrage, with calls for an independent inquiry due to beliefs of a coverup.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

Media outreach efforts

Through the Public Affairs Department, SPF has collaborated with the media industry to produce content that supports and promote the mission and brand of the organisation.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>

Books

Novels

Periodicals

Television programs

  • Documentary
  • Drama Series
    • Seletar Robbery (实里达大劫案), 1982
    • CID '83, 1983
    • First Step (踏上征途), 1986: On women in the police force
    • Patrol (铁警雄风), 1989: A take on the lives of the men in the Traffic Police Department
    • Private Eyes (妙探智多星), 1991
    • Ladies in action (霹雳红唇), 1992
    • Crime and Passion (執法先鋒), 1992
    • Lethal Duo (天使追辑令), 1994
    • Dr Justice (法医故事), 1994
    • Neighbourhood Heroies (大英雄小人物), 1995
    • Triple Nine, 1995–1998: On the adventures of a CID team.
    • Secret Files (机密档案), 1995
    • The Shadow Mission (地下猎人), 1995
    • The Dragons Five (飞龙五将), 1995
    • Dr Justice II (法医故事II), 1996
    • City Cops (警网双雄), 1996
    • Of Cops And Men (城市双雄), 1996
    • Pursuit of Justice (石破天惊), 1997
    • Act 235 (刑事235), 1998
    • Dare To Strike (扫冰者), 14 November 2000: the phrase "Dare to Strike" is the motto of the Central Narcotics Bureau
    • The Reunion (顶天立地), 26 December 2001
    • Heartlanders, 2002–2005: On two Neighbourhood Police Centre officers
    • True Heroes (真心英雄), 5 May 2003: Revolves around the daily lives of three Neighbourhood Police Centre officers
    • The Frontline (家在前线), 2003: This fictional six-part TV show depicts how Singaporeans cope after the German mastermind of a neo-anarchist organisation sets off a bomb at a naval base as an anti-imperialistic statement against Singapore's ties with the United States. It showcases the capabilities of the Singapore Police Force and the Singapore Armed Forces to deal with terrorism. Many technologies introduced in this series has never been before shown to the public. It is also the only local television series to date to accurately depict the Police's elite Special Tactics and Rescue (STAR) team and the Army's Special Operations Forces (SOF) although the latter unit was never addressed by name in the show. They were instead referred to as "The Commandos".
    • When the Time Comes (一线之间), 2004
    • The Crime Hunters (心网追凶), 2004
    • Police & Thief, 2004–2010
    • Life Line, 2005–2007
    • Zero to Hero (阴差阳错), 2005
    • Without Warning, 2006
    • The Undisclosed (迷云二十天), 2006
    • C.I.D. (刑警2人组), 12 June 2006
    • Metamorphosis (破茧而出), 18 September 2007
    • Crime Busters x 2 (叮当神探), 30 September 2008
    • Unriddle (最火搭档), 2010
    • Vettai : Pledged to Hunt (வேட்டை), 23 November 2010 – 30 March 2011
    • C.L.I.F. (警徽天职), 2011: First drama to be produced in close collaboration with the Singapore Police Force. The second, third, fourth, and fifth seasons were aired in 2013, 2014, September 2016 and September 2019 respectively.
    • Unriddle 2 (最火搭档2), 2012
    • Vettai 2.0: The Next Generation (வேட்டை 2.0), 4 January 2012 – 11 May 2013
    • Vettai 3: The Final Judgement (வேட்டை 3), 17 November 2014 – present
      • Mata-Mata Season 1, 2013: background post-World War II in Singapore and establish woman police
      • Mata-Mata Season 2, 2014: A New Era, background after separation Singapore from Malaysia and secret society '70s
      • Mata-Mata Season 3, 2015: A New Generation, background development Singapore and crime late '70s, early '80s and now

Movies

  • The Last Blood (驚天十二小時), 1991
  • Ace Cops (妙警点三八), 1996: Telemovie
  • Life on the Line (魂断四面佛), 1996: Telemovie
  • 2000 AD (公元2000), 1999<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
  • After School (放学后), 2004: A film released by the National Crime Prevention Council to harness the power of cinema as a public education tool to reach out to young Singaporeans and their families.

See also

Template:Commons category

References

Notes

Template:Reflist

Bibliography

Template:Refbegin

  • "In the Service of the Nation", John Drysdale, Federal Publications, 1985 Template:ISBN
  • "Phoenix: the story of the Home Team ", Felix Soh, Times Editions, 2003 Template:ISBN
  • "Policing Singapore in the 19th & 20th centuries", Peer M. Akbur, Singapore Police Force, 2002 Template:ISBN
  • "Singapore Police Force Annual", Singapore Police Force, several editions

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Template:Singapore Police Force Template:Police Template:Singapore topics

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