The number of female officers in the Singapore Police Force (SPF) has increased over the last decade. Currently, women make up about 18 per cent of the estimated 8,800 uniformed officers in the police force, up from 14 per cent in 2003. The first batch of female officers were recruited in 1949 to form the Women Special Constabulary. Over the years, they have taken up more roles and responsibilities.
In 1990, female Volunteer Special Constabulary officers - referring to part-time officers - were recruited and posted to the Traffic Police department. In 2007, a Special Women's Task Team comprising 23 female officers was formed and placed under the control of the Special Operations Command, a specialist unit.
To encourage more women to join the force, the SPF participates in various career fairs. It also organises self-defence and leadership courses for female students from tertiary institutions. Lim Yi Han and Ng Huiwen profile four female officers, past and present.