Singapore Police Force

Singapore

Member Country

Singapore Police Force

SPF

Singapore

Overview

The Singapore Police Force (SPF) is the national police force of the Republic of Singapore, responsible for maintaining law and order, preventing crime, and ensuring the safety and security of Singapore.

History

1819

With the establishment of Singapore as a trading post, the first police team comprised one jemadar (Asian Sergeant), 12 peons (patrolmen) and a jailor.

1826

Singapore merged with Malacca and Penang to form the Straits Settlements; the SPF became part of the Straits Settlements Police Force.

1856

The Police Act was passed and Thomas Dunman became the first full-time Commissioner of Police.

1862

The Detective Branch was established as a precursor to the Criminal Investigation Department, to investigate secret societies and violent crimes.

1866

The Marine Police was established to address piracy.

1918

The Criminal Intelligence Department was created to counter seditious activities; the Traffic Police was also started this year.

1949

The Gurkha Contingent was established; the first batch of 10 female constables was recruited.

1969

Academy status was granted to the Police Training School.

1975

Full-time Police National Service was introduced and the Scene of Crime Unit was established.

1983

The Neighbourhood Police Post system was implemented, bringing policing closer to the community.

1996

The Neighbourhood Police Centre concept was launched, providing 24-hour, one-stop police service.

2002

The Singapore Police Force received the Singapore Quality Award (SQA).

2007

The SPF was awarded the Singapore Quality Award with Special Commendation on October 9.

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Singapore is one of the eleven member states of ASEANAPOL, contributing to the collective mission of enhancing regional police cooperation and combating transnational crime in Southeast Asia.