Efficiency and Efficacy of Screenings at Airport Checkpoints

Mr Desmond Choo asked the Minister for Home Affairs (a) how does the law enforcement agencies (Home Team) balance between efficiency and efficacy in its screenings at airport checkpoints; and (b) what has been the detection rate of offences arising from such screenings in the last three years.

We take a risk-managed approach as we seek to balance security checks and efficient clearance. Security screenings are calibrated based on relevant information and data, such as the prevailing security environment and specific threat assessments. In addition, we have to comply with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization.

The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) also conducts pre-arrival risk assessment of travellers, based on advance passenger information provided by the airlines. Those assessed to be of higher risk will be subjected to more stringent checks upon arrival.

In the last three years from 2021 to November 2023, more than 300 items of security threat, such as slingshots, knuckle-dusters and gravity knives, were detected at our air checkpoints. During the same period, ICA refused entry to about 25,000 arriving travellers.

Border control is a key defence to keep Singapore safe and secure. We try to achieve an optimal balance between efficiency and efficacy and ask for the public's understanding when clearance sometimes takes longer than usual.