3 men under investigation for allegedly using vulgarities against safe distancing enforcement officers

SINGAPORE: Three men are under investigation in separate incidents for allegedly using abusive words towards safe distancing enforcement officers, the Singapore Police Force said (SPF) on Wednesday (Aug 11). 

The officers were from the National Environment Agency, who were assisting to enforce compliance to COVID-19 safe distancing measures, said SPF in a news release. 

In an incident on Jul 18, the police received a call for assistance from an enforcement officer that a 36-year-old man had hurled vulgarities at her while she was performing her duties at Newton Food Centre. 

The officer had approached the men and his three friends to advise them to stop drinking as it was past 10.30pm.

Under COVID-19 regulations, alcohol must not be served or consumed at food and beverage premises after 10.30pm.

"Instead of complying with her advice, the man allegedly hurled vulgarities at her," said the police. 

The man is currently assisting with investigations for using abusive words against a public servant and possibly breaching the Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act.

In another incident on the same day at Newton Food Centre, the police received a call from an enforcement officer that a 41-year-old man had shouted vulgarities at him while he was performing his duties. 

The enforcement officer had approached the man and his five friends to advise them to disperse, as their group had allegedly exceeded the permitted group size cap for social gatherings during that period. 

Fully vaccinated individuals were then allowed to dine-in at F&B establishments in groups of up to five.

Instead of complying with the officer's advice, the 41-year-old man allegedly hurled vulgarities at him. 

"The 41-year-old man is currently assisting with investigations for using abusive words against a public servant," said SPF, adding that the man and his five friends are also being investigated for breaching COVID-19 measures. 

In another incident on Jul 21, a 58-year-old man reportedly used vulgarities against an enforcement officer at Haig Road Market and Food Centre. 

The officer had approached the man and advised him to stop drinking his beer. The man was also told to put on his mask and leave the premises of the food centre as it was closed for deep cleaning, said the police.. 

Instead of complying, the man directed vulgarities at the enforcement officer. 

"The 58-year old man is currently assisting with investigations for using abusive words against a public servant," said SPF. 

The police said they take a serious view of abusive acts against enforcement officers and offenders will be dealt in accordance with the law. 

Members of the public are also advised to take safe distancing measures seriously. 

Those found guilty of using abusive words against public servants are liable to a fine of up to S$5,000, a jail term of up to 12 months, or both. 

Those found guilty of breaching COVID-19 regulations could be fined up to S$10,000, jailed for up to six months, or both.