As of Apr. 13, the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources revealed that over 200 composition fines will be issued to members of public who did not comply with elevated safe distancing measures.

One of these included a woman who sat down on a marked seat at a food centre at Blk 117 Aljunied Ave 2.

MEWR said that police assistance was required because she refused to leave, continued eating and also refused to provide her particulars.

Police assistance was required for over 10 cases on Apr. 13 when members of public were not cooperative.

In addition, MEWR also highlighted that fines have also been issued to people who were loitering, or using facilities, playfields and areas that had been cordoned off or closed off.

This included a small group playing tennis at the closed Tanglin Tennis Academy, and baseball in a closed private field at Tanglin Rugby Club.

Over 2,900 Enforcement Officers (EOs) and ambassadors were deployed on Apr. 13.

Apr. 13 is the first day of enforcement after Singapore Food Agency also introduced a mandatory requirement for staff engaged in the sale and preparation of food and drinks at all SFA-licensed food establishments to wear masks or other forms of physical barriers.

First-time offenders will face a composition fine of S$300. Repeat offenders will face higher fines, or prosecution in court for egregious cases.

EOs do not demand payment of fine on the spot

MEWR also emphasised that EOs are the only officers who can take enforcement action for breaching safe distancing measures.

These EOs wear the corporate attire and lanyard of their respective agencies.

They also do not demand payment of the fine on the spot. Notices will be issued to offenders in hard copy either on site, or through the mail.

No immediate payment or handing over of cash is required

Top photo via MEWR