80-year-old security guard assaulted for asking man sleeping on bench to move

SINGAPORE: In the latest case of abuse against security officers, an 80-year-old was brutally assaulted for simply carrying out his duty and requesting someone he found sleeping on a public bench to move. The incident has drawn attention to the risks faced by security personnel in the line of duty and has sparked outrage in the community.

According to the Union of Security Employees (USE), Officer Kwek Moh Chai was patrolling Bedok Central at 2am on Saturday (9 Sept) when he encountered a man sleeping on a public bench. Mr Kwek approached the man and informed him of the rules, requesting that he vacate the bench.

In response to Mr Kwek’s request, the man became aggressive and began yelling at the elderly security guard. Shockingly, the situation escalated as the man punched Mr Kwek in the face, causing him to lose his balance, fall and break his glasses.

Fortunately, two employees from a nearby restaurant witnessed the attack and immediately intervened. They subdued the assailant and promptly contacted the police, ensuring that the situation was brought under control.

Mr Kwek suffered visible injuries from the assault, including bruises and facial swelling. He was swiftly taken to a local hospital for medical treatment and was subsequently placed on medical leave as he recovered from his injuries.

USE has condemned the attack, emphasizing that security guards play a crucial role in safeguarding lives and property. The union has called for swift legal action against individuals who assault security personnel while performing their duties.

Statistics provided by the union reveal an alarming 44 per cent increase in violent incidents against security personnel from January to August this year, signalling the need for continued efforts to protect these essential workers.

On its official USE Facebook page, it was revealed that USE’s General Secretary Raymond Chin, Aedge Services Director Blaise Ong and Mediation Services Supervisor Murugason S/O Muthusamy, visited Mr Kwek at his home on 12 Sept. They provided vouchers and support to the elderly security guard.

USE also reiterated the importance of its officers in maintaining public safety and highlighted the protections provided to them under the Private Security Industry Act, which was enhanced in May 2022 to offer increased safeguards. The union called for the assailant to be held accountable under the law and encouraged anyone with information about abuses of security officers to report incidents through their app or email.