80-year-old security officer allegedly assaulted during night patrol at Bedok Central
During a Bedok Central night patrol on Sunday, an 80-year-old security officer was reportedly assaulted. \n \nThe Union of Security Employees (USE) is now advocating for justice and enhanced security officer protection in response to this distressing incident.
SINGAPORE: An unfortunate incident unfolded during a night patrol in Bedok Central last Sunday (10 Sept), as an 80-year-old security officer was allegedly punched in the face while performing his duty.
The incident has prompted a response from the Union of Security Employees (USE), which is calling for justice and greater protection for security officers.
The USE, in a recent Facebook post on Thursday, brought attention to the shocking attack that occurred in the early hours of 10 September.
According to the USE's account of the incident, the victim, Mr Kwek Moh Chai, an 80-year-old security officer and a member of USE, was deployed to a public area in Bedok Central that night.
At approximately 2:00 AM, Mr Kwek began his routine patrol of the area. During his rounds, he noticed a man sleeping on a public bench, a clear violation of regulations.
He promptly informed the man of the violation, leading the man to leave the bench as instructed.
Second confrontation turns violent
Mr Kwek continued his rounds and found the same man repeating the same act. When he reached out to him this time round, the man got agitated and started hurling vulgarities at him.
The man allegedly punched Mr Kwek on the face, causing him to fall and break his spectacles.
Two restaurant workers came to Mr Kwek's aid, restraining the assailant and promptly alerting the police.
Photographs taken following the incident revealed lacerations and swelling on Mr Kwek's face, further highlighting the severity of the assault.
He was immediately transported to a hospital for medical treatment and placed on medical leave.
The USE has expressed deep concern over the incident and emphasized that security officers play a crucial role in safeguarding lives and property.
"They are executing their duties as provided for under the Private Security Industry Act. The PSIA was enhanced in May 2022 to offer officers more protection. We hope the assailant will be dealt with firmly under the law. "
They have also called upon witnesses and the public to come forward with any information related to abuses of security officers, either through the USE app or by emailing [email protected].
In the meantime, the USE has extended quick relief vouchers and essential support to Mr Kwek as he recuperates from the assault.
The organization has also called for the community to join them in wishing Brother Kwek a swift and complete recovery.
