S’porean boy, 17, arrested for falsely claiming acquaintances had bomb & vape at Woodlands Checkpoint

A 17-year-old Singaporean boy was arrested for falsely claiming that his travel companions were in possession of a bomb and a vaporiser at Woodlands Checkpoint.

In a Facebook post on Aug. 18, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said the boy was referred to the police on Aug. 14 at about 10:45pm.

The boy had just cleared arrival immigration clearance at the arrival bus hall with two other companions when he allegedly pointed to them and made comments that they were in possession of a bomb and a vaporiser, respectively.

An ICA officer conducting profiling duties nearby heard the comments and immediately stopped them and referred them for further checks.

The checks established that they did not have the alleged items.

The boy was subsequently arrested for allegedly committing public nuisance.

Police investigations are ongoing.

ICA said it takes all reports made regarding security threats or contraband seriously.

It will not hesitate to take action against those who make false or misleading claims that cause unnecessary public alarm.

ICA also reminded travellers to observe rules, conduct themselves in an orderly manner and comply with officers’ instructions when using the checkpoints.