Monday, August 15, 2005
Ramblings
Random Searches On Singapore MRT Trains
I've send the following e-mail to Ministry of Home Affairs...
Hi,
Previously, MRT passengers are subjected to random searches of bags and belongings when entering MRT stations. It was stated then that passengers can choose not to have their bags searched by disagreeing to the search and leave the station.
However, in today's report by Channel NewsAsia <http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/163270/1/.html>, "Special armed police unit begins MRT patrols", it is reported that:
"Bags and items being checked onboard trains will soon become a common sight for the 1.2 million commuters using the MRT daily."
This implies that bags and belongings will no longer be searched just at the entrance to stations, but also inside moving trains. Does this mean a change in policy in regarding the passengers' right to refuse searches? Can any passengers decline random searches and leave the MRT train and station without incurring any harm on themselves due to the "shoot to kill" policy by the armed police unit? What is the proper procedure, if available, for refusing random searches?
Thanks. I look forward to your clarifications.
Leong Heng Cheong
News
Special Armed Police Unit Begins MRT Patrols
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