Armed Robberies and Deterrence Measures in Place in Financial Institutions in Heartland Areas

Mr Mohd Fahmi Aliman asked the Minister for Home Affairs (a) what is the number of armed robberies in the past five years; (b) what are the existing measures put in place to deter and prevent armed robberies in financial establishments located in heartland areas; and (c) whether additional measures will be implemented moving forward.

From January 2018 to August 2022, there were 43 armed robberies, or an average of nine per year. The number of such cases has decreased, from 14 in 2018 to eight in 2021.

Under the Penal Code 1871, an individual convicted of robbery armed with a deadly weapon is liable for imprisonment between two years and 14 years and, if eligible for caning, not fewer than 12 strokes. The heavy punishment serves to deter potential offenders.

It is recognised that establishments with cash on premises, including banks, could be a more likely target for robbers. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), therefore, expects banks to put in place appropriate security measures. Measures deployed by banks include closed-circuit television system, electronic access control for restricted areas, intrusion detection systems, panic alarms or kick-bars and armed security personnel.

Other financial establishments have also put in place similar measures to prevent and deter armed robberies.

The Singapore Police Force will continue to monitor the crime situation and implement relevant anti-crime measures as appropriate.