Police issue advisory for people visiting Geylang Hari Raya Bazaar from May 25 - June 24

A media preview of the annual Hari Raya Light-Up in Geylang Serai on May 15, 2017. PHOTO: SEAH KWANG PENG

SINGAPORE - The police have issued a set of safety measures for people visiting the Geylang Serai Hari Raya Bazaar which will be open from May 25 to June 24.

The bazaar is likely to draw large crowds, especially during weekends.

The public can remain vigilant against crime by adopting the following measures:

Never leave your personal belongings unattended in public places.

  • Avoid wearing excessive jewellery and carrying large amounts of cash.
  • Avoid placing your wallet in your back pocket.
  • Sling your handbag in front of you and ensure that it is fastened or zipped at all times.
  • Do not let your children wear excessive jewellery as they are easy targets for potential criminals.
  • Be alert to your surroundings. Where possible, move away if someone stands or sits unusually close to you.
  • Do not be distracted by strangers creating a commotion or accidentally bumping or spilling something onto you.
  • If you suspect that you are being followed, remain calm and proceed to a crowded area or call the police for help.
  • Stay close to your friends or move around in groups when in crowded places.
  • If you are molested, call for help immediately by shouting or seek help from people nearby to increase the chances of catching the culprit. Call 999 as soon as possible.

Heavy traffic is expected along Changi Road and Sims Avenue during this period, the police added in their media release on Friday (May 19) evening.

Motorists are advised to avoid the affected roads, make alternative travel arrangements, and drive carefully.

Auxiliary police officers will be present at all affected road junctions to regulate traffic and assist motorists. Strict action will also be taken against illegal parking, said the police.

The police stressed that they take a serious view of anyone who sets off improvised explosive devices that were made out of sparklers.

"Such improvised explosive devices are a potential fire hazard, causes noise pollution and undue alarm to the public. The blast effect from the explosion can also cause injuries and damage property," the police said.

Anyone caught setting off these devices may be persecuted in Court for an offence of negligent conduct involving an explosive substance.

If convicted, the offender could face up to one year of jail, a fine up to $5,000, or both.

If he injures anyone, the offender could be prosecuted for voluntarily causing hurt with heated or explosive substances, and would face up to seven years' jail, a fine, caning, or any combination of such punishments.

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