The escape of a prisoner or detainee, especially a terrorist leader, is a serious matter and concerns public safety.

Hence, both the Ministry of Home Affairs and the public must work together swiftly to apprehend the escapee to prevent him from causing danger to others.

I understand that the ministry may have good reasons to decide on when to inform the public. That is why I asked the minister to explain the four-hour time gap.

I am also confident that the ministry is always mindful of the interests of the public; and will exercise due diligence when responding to such a crisis.

As the incident is under review by a Committee of Inquiry, we shall wait for the independent panel's investigation into the escape. I thank Mr Ho for his concern on this matter.

Dr Teo Ho Pin
Member of Parliament for
Bukit Panjang and
Chairman, Government Parliamentary Committee for Law and Home Affairs