Eh, Singaporeans, pernah tak you see someone kena beating in public? It’s shocking, right? But what do you actually do? Calling the police is often the first instinct, but is it always the best? Let’s talk about what Singaporeans are doing, the challenges they face, and how we can all make our community safer.
Spotting Public Violence
- Public violence, while not as common as in some countries, still happens in Singapore.
“In some countries, what you witnessed is just an everyday occurance and completely normalised. That shit isn’t normal here and I love Singapore for it.”
- One Reddit user, lost_bunny877, shared their experience of witnessing a man assaulting a woman at a coffeeshop and calling the police.
- Many Singaporeans online agreed that reporting such incidents is the right thing to do, emphasizing that physical assault is illegal in Singapore.
- However, there are concerns about personal safety after reporting an incident.
Singapore has a relatively low crime rate, but incidents of public violence do occur, and it’s important to know how to respond.
Risks and Realities
- One major concern is the potential for retaliation from the abuser, especially after the police question witnesses in front of the perpetrator.
“Even if it’s gang fight they will still question you in front of both groups without any concern for your safety.”
- Some Singaporeans feel vulnerable after making a police report, fearing that the abuser knows who reported them.
- There’s also the dilemma of whether to intervene directly or wait for the authorities, balancing the need to help with the risk of escalating the situation.
- The police needing evidence can put pressure on witnesses.
The reality is that intervening can be dangerous, but doing nothing can leave the victim vulnerable. Finding the right balance is key.
Actionable Steps & Solutions
- Calling the police remains the primary and often safest course of action.
“You did the right thing.”
- If you feel comfortable and safe, consider intervening non-physically by shouting or creating a distraction.
- If you fear for your safety after reporting, inform the police of your concerns and request discretion.
“I think he knows it was me who called, i feel worried about my safety, is there anything I could do?”
- Consider avoiding the area where the incident occurred for a while.
- Remember, your statement helps build a case against the abuser.
- If you choose to intervene physically, prioritize your safety and aim to minimize damage.
Ultimately, reporting public violence is crucial for maintaining safety in Singapore. By taking these steps, we can create a safer environment for everyone. Remember to always prioritize your own safety and well-being.
