Heading down to the bustling Chinatown CNY bazaar? Join Bukit Merah East NPC officers on patrol as they ensure a safe and secure celebration for everyone!
By: Domnic Dass
Amidst the vibrant hue of Chinese New Year (CNY) decorations embellishing Chinatown's streets, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) stands watchful, ensuring the safety of visitors to the lively annual bazaar, held from 19 January 2024 to 9 February 2024. Police Life joins two dedicated Ground Response Force (GRF) officers from Bukit Merah East Neighbourhood Police Centre (NPC), Sergeant (Sgt) Muhammad Firdaus Bin Hussain and Sgt Daryl Seah, who share their experiences patrolling during this festive period.
A Commitment to Public Safety
Sgt Firdaus joined the SPF in 2019 because he “wanted to help others in need.” Driven by the same passion to serve the public and make Singapore the safest place in the world, Sgt Seah joined the SPF a year later.
Explaining their responsibilities as GRF officers, Sgt Seah said, “Our primary duty is to respond to people in need of help, to prevent, deter and detect crime, as well as protect life and property.”
Staying Vigilant and Focused
2024 is the second year since the COVID-19 pandemic that the CNY Bazaar has been held, and crowds have returned with enthusiasm to Chinatown’s streets. “During our deployment for the CNY Bazaar, besides staying vigilant for incidents involving public safety, we also ensure the safety of visitors by projecting Police presence and preventing crimes such as shop theft and pickpocketing,” said Sgt Seah.
Both Sgt Firdaus and Sgt Seah have actively participated in recent CNY Bazaar deployments. “We’re briefed on our areas of patrol and it’s our responsibility to ensure that visitors are safe when visiting the bazaar,” shared Sgt Firdaus.
After a friendly nod to a shopkeeper and giving directions to a pair of tourists, the officers make their way down another street filled with roadside stalls and visitors. “The crowds tend to get bigger in the evenings, especially as CNY approaches,” remarked Sgt Seah. “We need to be vigilant and focus on our mission to prevent crime.”
Navigating the Crowds
Patrolling during the CNY Bazaar comes with its own unique set of challenges. “Because of the crowd, it takes a bit more time for us to get from one point to another,” shared Sgt Firdaus. “In such situations, we have to be highly engaged with what’s happening around us as we patrol.”
The commitment and professionalism of officers like Sgt Seah and Sgt Firdaus exemplify the SPF’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding the community during CNY, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the festivities with peace of mind.
Sgt Seah expressed that he can still relish the festive spirit while patrolling. “Happy CNY to the public and my fellow officers, and may this new year bring us an abundance of joy, laughter and prosperity!”
“Happy CNY to my fellow officers on duty, and thank you for keeping Singapore safe, especially during the festive period!” said Sgt Firdaus, demonstrating the camaraderie and dedication that defines the SPF.
Explore Our Content
Editor's Pick
