A 40-year-old man who posted a false message on a Facebook group called "Taxiuncle" will be charged in the State Courts today, April 27, police said.
The man had posted a message relating to Covid-19 circuit breaker measures between April 15 to 16.
The message warned readers that food courts and coffeeshops would soon be closed, while supermarkets would be opened for only two days each week – which police said was false.
The message urged readers to "stock up your stuff for the next month or so".
Offence of communicating a false message
The man will be charged with an offence of communicating a false message under Section 14D(1) of the Miscellaneous Offences (Public Order and Nuisance) Act.
If convicted, the man could be jailed for up to three years, given a fine of up to S$10,000, or both.
The message read:
“Got intel say sg will proceed with more measures in place come this Saturday.
Food courts coffee shop all to close
Supermarkets will only open two days a week
Better go stock up your stuff for the next month or so.
Govt officials in meeting yesterday and will finalise measures tomorrow.”
Action will be taken against anyone who transmits falsehoods
The Police said that they would "take action against anyone who transmits or communicates falsehoods".
They also advised members of the public to refer to official sources for information, and to avoid spreading unsubstantiated information, or false rumours, as these may cause fear and public alarm.
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Top image via Singapore Police Force and Austin Distel on unsplash