Stay patient and vigilant when dealing with Christmas crowds on Orchard: Police
Christmas decorations at Orchardgateway. ST PHOTO: SEAH KWANG PENG
Published 11 hours ago
Olivia Ho
SINGAPORE - People who plan to go to the Orchard area during the Christmas period should be prepared for big crowds and heightened security.
In a statement on Monday (Dec 21), the police said they were expecting large crowds in the area, especially on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, on Thursday and Friday this week.
They will be deploying police officers, auxiliary police officers and security officers to ensure the safety of the public.
The police said that bags and personal items may be subjected to police checks, and advised the public to cooperate should such checks be conducted. Members of the public should also notify the nearest police or auxiliary police officers if they come across any suspicious items or persons.
The police also advised the public to be tolerant as the large crowds mean dispersal is likely to be slow. Crowd control barricades and directional signs will be put up to facilitate dispersal.
They also warned the public to remain vigilant against crime even while enjoying the festivities, particularly against pickpockets, unruly crowds, and molestation. "There have been previous incidents where individuals are known to spray foam onto victims and molest them," said the statement.
They also reminded the public not to cause nuisance or compromise the safety of others.
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