http://www.spf.gov.sg/mic/2010/100718_photographer.htm
Police Response to Media Queries on Photographer Handcuffed when Taking Photographs of Flood
In response to media queries, preliminary inquiry revealed that while police was conducting rescue operations and traffic diversion at the flood hit area along Bt Timah Rd, police came across a man who was taking photographs at the said location. He was observed to be standing on a manhole within the centre road divider which was submerged in waters and taking photographs in a dangerous position. Due to safety considerations, Police officers repeatedly advised the man to move away from the centre road divider and move to a safe place on the pavement. However, the man refused to take heed of police's advice and continued to walk along the side of the road divider and continued with his photography. Police again tried to advise the man but to no avail. As he was causing obstructions to the Police officer in the discharge of his duties and causing danger to himself and others, the officers decided to restrain him and move him to safe grounds but the man resisted and put up a struggle. The officers then had to use force by handcuffing him and moving him to safe grounds. After verifications of the identification and assessment that police rescue operation will not be compromised, the photographer was released.
Police have classified the case under Sec 186 of the Penal Code, Chapter 224 and investigations are currently ongoing.
Police urge for cooperation from the public. Anyone who obstructs an officer from discharging his duties is culpable of the following offence;
Section 186 of the Penal Code. Whoever voluntarily obstructs any public servant in the discharge of his public functions, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to 3 months, or with fine which may extend to $2,500, or with both.
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PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
18 July 2010 @ 6.30pm
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