Singapore steps up anti-terrorism measures with fingerprinting for all arrivals

It will be implemented across checkpoints by June.

Being a major transport hub with more than half a million people passing through its checkpoints daily, it’s a necessity for Singapore’s immigration to constantly step up its efforts against security risks.

One of these measures would be the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority’s (ICA) BioScreen initiative across all checkpoints to capture the fingerprints of all arriving persons by June 2016.

In a speech by Desmond Lee, senior minister of state for home affairs, he said the records would allow the immigrations body to verify the traveller’s identity before entry to Singapore, while also facilitating automated self-clearance during departure.

“Some of the enhanced security measures at the land check points will cause inconvenience to travelers. This is especially so during festive periods and holidays like the upcoming Chinese New Year, when traveller volume is expected to increase,” Lee said.

Lee added that this investment in technology would facilitate efficient travel while simultaneously maintaining the high level of securityin the check points.

Furthermore, Lee added that the police have also enhanced security measures and vigilance with the installation of police cameras at HDB blocks and multi-storey carparks.

“Police have also stepped up patrols in crowded areas and conducted exercises to raise the level of preparedness of its officers in response to a terrorist attack,” Lee said.