A 54-year-old man and a 47-year-old woman will be charged in court on 1 April 2022 for public nuisance and failing to wear a mask properly while in a public place. The woman will also be charged for the offence of using criminal force on a public servant.
On 11 September 2021 at about 10.30pm, three Safe Distancing Ambassadors (SDA) attached to the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) were performing their duties at Marina Bay Sands where they advised a couple to wear their mask properly. The couple allegedly confronted the SDAs and refused to adhere to their advice despite repeated attempts. The couple then allegedly shouted repeatedly and gestured aggressively at the SDA officers. The woman also purportedly pulled down one of the SDAs’ mask during the confrontation.
The offence of using criminal force to deter a public servant from discharge of his duty, under Section 353 of the Penal Code, carries an imprisonment term of up to four years, a fine, or both. The offence of public nuisance, under Section 290 of the Penal Code, carries an imprisonment term of up to three months, a fine of up to $2,000, or both.
Individuals who are found not to be wearing a mask, or not wearing a mask properly outside their place of residence, are liable for a breach of Regulations 3A of the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020 punishable under Section 34(7) of the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Act 2020. Offenders may face a fine of up to $10,000, and imprisonment term of up to six months, or both.
Members of the public are advised to take the prevailing safe distancing measures seriously. The Police take a stern view of abusive behaviours against public servants or public service workers who carrying out their public duties and irresponsible behaviour relating to the flouting of safe distancing measures. Offenders will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
31 March 2022 @ 12:00 PM