Shopper Assaults Female Security Guard in Singapore Mall: Union Condemns Abuse
A disturbing incident involving violence against a frontline worker has surfaced in Singapore. A senior female security officer was allegedly punched by a shopper at a shopping mall in northern Singapore after she reminded him that the premises were closing for the night.
The assault, which occurred late on Wednesday (3 Dec) around 11:30 pm, has renewed urgent concerns about the persistent issue of abuse against security officers while they perform their essential duties across the country.
Details of the Security Guard Assault Incident
The victim, identified only as Sister Delos, was carrying out her duty to secure the premises. She approached a man in his mid-30s to inform him the mall was shutting down.
According to a statement released by the Union of Security Employees (USE), the man did not initially respond to the officer’s reminder. When Sister Delos approached him a second time, the shopper “suddenly became aggressive.” The man advanced towards her and allegedly punched the senior officer.
Officer Sustains Injuries While Defending Herself
During the confrontation, the officer sustained injuries to her hands while trying to defend herself. Sister Delos immediately sought medical treatment and was given three days of medical leave following the incident.
The USE noted that the officer is the sole breadwinner for her family. Despite the traumatic nature of the assault, the dedicated security guard has shown great resilience by choosing to return to the same worksite.
The police were notified immediately after the incident. A report has been filed, and crucial CCTV footage of the mall assault incident has been submitted to the authorities to aid the investigation.
Enhanced Laws and Union Condemnation of Abuse
The Union of Security Employees issued a strong statement, emphasizing that it “strongly condemn[s] any form of abuse towards security officers.”
They highlighted that security personnel perform their jobs under the framework of the Private Security Industry Act (PSIA) and must not be subjected to harassment or violence. The USE reminded the public that the PSIA was enhanced in May 2022 to provide stronger deterrence against such misconduct, including heavier penalties for obstructing or assaulting a security officer.
The union urged members of the public who have information on any form of abuse directed at security personnel in Singapore to report it immediately via the MyUSE app or through email [email protected].
Investigations into the assault of Sister Delos are currently ongoing with the Singapore Police Force.
