SINGAPORE : In a sign of the times, the Police Security Command,
whose mission is to protect VIPs in Singapore, has seen its
manpower and capabilities increased by a factor of 50
percent over the past four years.
From simple bodyguard duties, the officers now use the latest
hi-tech gear and have greater fire power.
The incident that led to the start of VIP protection here was the
1950 attempt on the life of governor of the Straits Settlement of
Singapore.
More than half a century later, the job is more complex and more
dangerous.
Where close protection would have been enough in the past, now
fully-decked out Counter Assault Teams with high-powered weapons
are on hand to neutralise terrorist
attacks.
Working under these demanding conditions means security officers
must be experts in close quarter combat, unarmed combat, and
weapons handling.
And now sniper cover has just become part of VVIP
protection.
But the hardware is only as good as the person with his finger on
the trigger.
And it is no easy target.
At a distant of 185 metres, snipers have to hit a target, called a
clay pigeon, that is just 10 centimetres in diameter. If it were a
human head, it would have disintegrated.
One of the latest additions to the Security Command's high tech
arsenal are four robots for Counter Improvised Explosive Devices,
or IEDs.
This gives officers a first response capability when facing
suspicious items.
Cameras and eavesdropping devices are also used to help detect
undesirable elements who might be planning an attack against any
VVIP.
These Counter Surveillance officers provide a birds' eye view of
the surrounding area and can give early warning to the security
officers who are guarding the VVIPs.
Contrary to the human instinct to run from danger, these officers
are ready, willing and able to do the opposite to protect
lives.
How do they do it?
"It's a matter of training, training an officer to react against
his natural instincts. To look at the situation, to respond
quickly, and not just to react to his own instincts, but to be able
to respond with the kind of training that he's been given, and to
do it every single time," said Assistant Superintendent Kelvin Sng
of the Police Security Command.
And just how do the families of these men take to them putting
their lives on the line for someone else?
"I explained to them the kind of preparation and training we've
gone through. They realise to some extent that their worries are
unfounded. I do believe that it's actually an honour to serve in
the unit," said ASP Sng. - CNA
