Question:
Mr Darryl David: To ask the Minister for Home Affairs (a) how many cases of rioting with deadly weapons have taken place in the last five years; (b) how many of those involved in these cases are under 21 years of age; and (c) how do the Police and other relevant authorities deal with these cases, especially when the perpetrators are under the age of 21.
Answer:
Mr K Shanmugam, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law:
1. Between 2019 and 2023, there were, on average, about 10 cases every year involving rioting with a deadly weapon under Section 148 of the Penal Code. Of these cases, slightly more than half involved offenders below 21 years of age.
2. The Police investigate all reports of rioting, including those involving youths. If the Attorney-General Chambers decides subsequently to prosecute the case, it will be dealt with in the Youth Court or another appropriate court, depending on the nature of the case
and the age of the suspect.
3. There are measures in place to ensure the well-being of young offenders below the age of 18 during the investigation process. For example, the Appropriate Adult Scheme for Young Suspects ensures that law enforcement interviews are conducted in the presence of a neutral and independent adult who provides emotional support to the young suspect being interviewed and facilitates communication between the Investigation Officer and the suspect.
