Sydney siege: Singaporeans in Sydney should take extra precaution, says MFA

Police walk through Martin Place as spectators look on during a hostage siege in the central business district of Sydney on Dec 15, 2014. Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has reminded Singaporeans in Sydney to take extra precaution
Police walk through Martin Place as spectators look on during a hostage siege in the central business district of Sydney on Dec 15, 2014. Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has reminded Singaporeans in Sydney to take extra precaution as the city went on high alert on Monday after a gunman at a cafe took a group of people hostage. -- PHOTO: AFP

SINGAPORE - Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has reminded Singaporeans in Sydney to take extra precaution as the city went on high alert on Monday after a gunman at a cafe took a group of people hostage.

"There is an ongoing hostage situation in Martin Place, Sydney. Singaporeans in Sydney should take extra precaution for their personal safety and heed the advice of the local authorities. They should also follow the local news closely," said a MFA statement.

"Singaporeans travelling to or residing in Sydney are encouraged to eRegister with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg/ to facilitate contact should the need arise."

MFA said Singaporeans who require consular assistance while in Sydney may contact the High Commission in Canberra or the 24-hour MFA Duty Office:

High Commission of the Republic of Singapore

Address: 17 Forster Crescent, Yarralumla, ACT 2600 , Australia

Tel: +61 (2) 6271-2000

Emergency Contact: +61-414 733 944

Telefax: +61 (2) 6273-9823

Email: singhc_cbr@sgmfa.gov.sg

Homepage: http://www.mfa.gov.sg/canberra

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24-hours)

Tel: +65 6379 8800, 6379 8855

Fax: 6476 7302

Email: mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sg

MFA also advised Singaporeans to purchase comprehensive travel and medical insurance. They should check with their respective insurers if in doubt on the terms and conditions of their insurance coverage, MFA said.

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