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Published 28 November 2024
4-min Read

Anatomy of an episode: a behind-the-scenes look at the processes and people involved in making Crimewatch happen.

By: Alethea Lee, Nur Farahin Binte Rahim and Low Ee Ching

Crimewatch 38 Years of Fighting Crime on Screen
PHOTO: Soh Ying Jie

For the past 38 years, Crimewatch has been a staple of Singapore’s crime prevention landscape, characterised by its focus on actual Police cases and unique local character. Behind the scenes of this iconic television programme lies an intriguing process involving careful case selection, meticulous planning and creative execution.

The goal? To showcase crimes of concern, raise public education and demonstrate how our officers work with the public and community partners to keep Singapore safe and secure.

First aired on 30 November 1986, Crimewatch is the longest-running info-educational programme in Singapore, produced by the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) in collaboration with the Singapore Police Force (SPF). Each episode features re-enactments of Police cases and provides crime prevention advice to viewers, making it a valuable resource for the community.

Crimewatch 38 Years of Fighting Crime on Screen 02
Behind the scenes of Crimewatch in 1993 (top); officers recognised for their efforts in supporting the production of Crimewatch in 1994. PHOTOS: SPF

Through the decades, Crimewatch has continued to inspire public spiritedness, further strengthening the partnership between the Police and the public. This aspect of Crimewatch can be traced all the way back to the series premiere, when a viewer provided a tip-off midway through the episode, resulting in the arrest of secret society members involved in a murder case.

Pre-production: Building a Story
The journey of a Crimewatch episode begins long before the cameras roll. The chosen cases highlight topical crimes of concern, in order to share key crime prevention messages with the public.

Crimewatch 38 Years of Fighting Crime on Screen 03
At a production meeting with officers of the Anti-Scam Command, the Mediacorp production team and other stakeholders. PHOTO: Alethea Lee

Once a case has been chosen, the next step is the treatment meeting. During this session, the Mediacorp production team meets with Investigation Officers (IOs) to learn case details and understand investigation efforts so that it can develop an accurate and engaging script.

This is followed by the production meeting, during which the production team and IOs review the script in detail, addressing any potential issues that may arise during filming. This discussion ensures that the story remains factually accurate and that the narrative flows smoothly. The team also covers logistical and administrative matters such as filming dates, locations and resources required.

Production: Bringing the Story to Life

The filming of a Crimewatch episode can span up to five days. From the early mornings to late afternoons and sometimes well past midnight, the production crew, actors and officers work tirelessly to capture scenes that bring the story to life.

Crimewatch 38 Years of Fighting Crime on Screen 04
SPF coordinators support production by advising on case details and the representation of Police processes, such as arrests and interviews. PHOTOS: Soh Ying Jie, Alethea Lee

As the crew arrives at the designated location, the buzz of activity begins. Lights are set-up; cameras prepped. The director surveys the scene, envisioning the perfect angle. The actors take their positions as the director guides them, demonstrating the required emotions and actions.

Crimewatch 38 Years of Fighting Crime on Screen 05
With its unique blend of actual case details, dramatic re-enactments and spotlight on real Police resources and venues, Crimewatch continues to find new viewers. PHOTOS: Soh Ying Jie, Alethea Lee

Some scenes require multiple takes, and the team’s attention to detail ensures that every aspect, from Police procedures to terminology, is accurate. With each take, the story unfolds, and the Crimewatch episode begins to take shape.

Putting a Human Face on the Police’s Work
One of the most unique aspects of Crimewatch is the fact that it features real Police officers appearing onscreen and also serving as presenters. They wrap up the episode by sharing the outcomes of each case and conveying timely crime prevention messages, in our four official languages – solid proof of the Police’s dedication to safeguarding every day!

Crimewatch 38 Years of Fighting Crime on Screen 06
Crimewatch episodes are broadcast in the four official languages, with Police hosts sharing key messages with viewers. A closing Scam Alert segment also provides anti-scam advisories in a concise and engaging manner. PHOTOS: SPF

Then comes the Scam Alert segment that closes each episode. Having debuted on Crimewatch in 2018, this segment raises awareness of current scam trends and highlights preventive measures such as the “Add, Check, Tell” advisory and the ScamShield suite of resources.

“In addition to educating viewers, we hope to create a ripple effect where informed viewers spread the message,” explains Mr Aren Poh, Assistant Manager with the NCPC. “This helps to build a community that’s alert and resilient against scams.”

Post-production: The Final Cut

With filming complete, the episode is refined through reviews by major stakeholders and careful editing. The editor’s skilled hand shapes the narrative, weaving scenes together to create a gripping story.

Once all the necessary edits have been made and finalised, the episode is aired on Channel 5, Channel 8, Suria and Vasantham, as well as posted on meWATCH and YouTube, ready for viewers to enjoy!

Thank you for supporting 38 years of Crimewatch. Together, we can keep Singapore safe and secure. Until next time, do your part to prevent, deter and detect crime!

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