There will be greater police presence and increased checks on bags and personal belongings this festive period, especially on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Police officers, auxiliary police officers and security officers will be deployed for crowd control, alongside officers from the Protective Security Command and Emergency Response Teams, the police said yesterday. Women are also advised to be vigilant against molesters. The police told of previous incidents where individuals sprayed foam into victims' eyes before committing molestation.

The public is advised to cooperate with security personnel during checks, and to be considerate to others by avoiding activities that may cause annoyance or compromise safety. As large crowds are expected in Orchard Road and Gardens by the Bay, visitors should plan for slow traffic when leaving the area. The public is also reminded to remain vigilant against crime.

The police warning comes amid expectations of record crowds, especially during New Year's Eve festivities. For the first time, two major roads in the Civic District will be closed for countdown celebrations. St Andrew's Road and Connaught Drive will be closed to vehicles to make space for activities such as picnics, movie screenings, yoga classes and a dance party.

Fabian Koh