‘Enhanced patrols’ at Orchard Road on Christmas Eve as large crowds expected

'Enhanced patrols' at Orchard Road on Christmas Eve as large crowds expected

SINGAPORE: There will be enhanced patrols around Orchard Street on the night of Christmas Eve as big crowds are expected, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) said on Wednesday (Dec 21).

From the night of Dec twenty-four, police officers, auxiliary police officers, and security officials will be deployed to handle crowds in the vicinity of Orchard Road to ensure the safety and security of the public, SPF said.

Crowd control barricades and direction symptoms will be put up to facilitate a safe and orderly crowd flow.

“The public is advised to be patient and stick to officers’ instructions, rather than attempt to force their own way in crowded or even closed-off areas, ” the police said in an advisory.

Because Orchard MRT place is expected to become crowded, commuters are advised to head towards option stations such as Dhoby Ghaut and Somerset MRT stations, exactly where possible,.

The public intending to visit Orchard Road on Xmas Eve can also browse the Crowd@OrchardRoad map found to view current crowd levels and to avoid crowded places.

They will be in a position to access the website on the computers and mobile devices from Dec twenty-four, 6pm onwards.

The police added how the enhanced patrols is going to be carried out by  the Protective Security Command, Transport Security Command word, Emergency Response Groups and the Special Procedures Command.

Security personnel may perform checks on luggage and personal items, and the police are seeking assistance from members of the public in order to facilitate the investigations.

“The open public is reminded to become considerate and avoid doing activities and/or the usage of party novelty products, including aerosol foam sprays, that may irritate or compromise the particular safety of others, ” SPF added.

“The police will not hesitate to take action against anyone who causes general public nuisance or fractures the law. ”

With large crowds of people expected, the public is also advised to safeguard their particular belongings and be vigilant against molesters, pickpockets, and thieves.

For those who are heading to Orchard Road to commemorate Christmas, the police have got listed the following criminal offense prevention measures:  

  • Take care of your belongings all the time.
  • Be cautious when approached by strangers who try to get very close to you.  
  • Avoid holding large amounts of cash or wearing extreme jewellery to crowded places.  
  • Ensure your handbag is closed at all times and sling it in front of you.
  • Prevent placing your wallet in your back pocket.
  • Avoid contact/confrontation with unruly throngs Approach any officer or dial ‘999’ for urgent assistance.

Anyone with information on suspicious persons or routines can contact the interior Security Department with 1800-2626-473 or the Law enforcement at 999, or SMS to 71999, or submit the particular information  online from www.police.gov.sg/iwitness.

They could also download the SGSecure App through Google Play Store or the Apple App Store to provide information towards the authorities.