SINGAPORE: The Singapore Police Force (SPF) has reiterated its stance on not allowing events related to the Israel-Hamas war to be held, amid online calls for a weekend march at the Singapore Botanic Gardens.
SPF said in response to media queries on Thursday (Feb 15) that they are aware of calls on social media to gather for an event called Walk-Out Singapore “to demonstrate views related to the Israel-Hamas conflict”.
“A police permit is required for such activities,” said SPF, adding that organising or participating in such an event without one is an offence.
Pointing to their statement on Feb 13, SPF said that there are “particular public safety and security concerns with assemblies and processions” related to the conflict.
“They could lead to tensions and disharmony in our society, as different communities in Singapore hold different views on the matter.
“We will therefore not approve applications to hold events related to the Israel-Hamas conflict, regardless of which side the support is for.”
SPF said that they contacted the organiser on Thursday and advised her on the matter.
SPF said on Feb 13 that they were investigating possible offences at two separate events on Feb 2 related to the war, including a public gathering along orchard road.
The authorities also said that they were aware of calls to protest against Israel at the Singapore Airshow and have warned that warned that organising or participating in a public assembly or procession without a permit is illegal.