A recent incident involving a man being injured by a bullet in a restricted area gazetted for live-firing exercises has raised questions about entering such areas in Singapore. Here is what you need to know about gazetted and protected areas in the country.
What are Gazetted Areas?
In Singapore, gazetted areas are designated by the Government for various purposes like conservation, public safety, and national security. These areas can be declared for military practices or other uses, with Mindef having the authority to specify such locations under the Military Manoeuvres Act.
Examples of Gazetted Areas
Some examples of gazetted areas in Singapore include military grounds like Jurong Troop Manoeuvring Ground and tree conservation areas like Central and Changi. These areas are published in the Government Gazette, an official record available online, to inform the public about their designation.
Gazetted Areas vs. Protected Areas
Protected areas or places, as defined by the Singapore Police Force, require special measures to control access for public safety and security reasons. While gazetted areas are designated for specific purposes, protected areas can include sensitive installations like military camps and water treatment plants.
Legal Consequences
Entering a gazetted or protected area without authorization can lead to fines, imprisonment, or other penalties under laws like the Military Manoeuvres Act and the Infrastructure Protection Act. Punishments can range from fines to jail time, depending on the severity of the offense.
Recent Prosecutions
While there have been no known prosecutions under the Military Manoeuvres Act, cases under the Protected Areas and Protected Places Act have resulted in convictions. In 2010, individuals were sentenced for violating the law by trespassing into restricted areas.
For the latest information on SAF training exercises and restricted areas, the public can refer to advisories published on the Mindef website to avoid accidental entry into such locations.
Source: The Straits Times
