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Police investigating 5 persons for spreading false kidnapping info
Posted: 02 April 2012 1732 hrs
SINGAPORE: Five individuals (men and women) are helping police with investigations regarding the posting of unsubstantiated information via the internet and SMS on children being abducted and kidnapped.
The police stressed that there has been no reported case in which a child was actually abducted or kidnapped.
It investigated seven police reports between 19 and 31 March and has established that none of the seven cases are related.
There is also no evidence to suggest criminal intent behind any of these encounters.
The alleged kidnap attempts were said to have taken place in Tampines, Pasir Ris, Simei and Ang Mo Kio.
Police have warned that transmitting false messages is an offence under the law - under Section 45 of the Telecommunications Act - and anyone who spreads false information in order to cause fear and alarm, or to incite offences against a class or community of persons, could be jailed up to three years, fined or both.
Police said it takes all reports of abduction and kidnapping very seriously and spares no effort in such investigations.
Parents, guardians or caregivers of young children should call 999 or make a police report for police to take immediate action.
Assistant Commissioner Ng Guat Ting, the police's director of public affairs, said, "Sharing tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of crime is good community spirit and is strongly encouraged.
"However, circulating false information is not only irresponsible, it is an offence. It will not only slow down and hinder Police investigation into true reports and offences but worst still, generate unnecessary public alarm, causing fear and panic in the community."
There have been numerous postings on social media recently alleging that young children have been led away by strangers in public places.
- CNA/wm/ck
