Paris attacks: Singapore raises alert level; no Singaporean casualties
Singapore has raised its alert level, and strongly condemned the terrorist attacks in Paris on Friday night.
Minister for Home Affairs and Law K Shanmugam said in a statement, “These attacks show that no country is immune, even when there is a state of heightened security.
“In Singapore, today, we have raised our alert level. We have stepped up security measures, border checks and vigilance. Together, everyone plays a part to keep Singapore safe and secure. We encourage everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or persons to the authorities.”
Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan said that so far, he has not been informed of any Singapore casualties. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) is monitoring developments closely and is contacting registered Singaporeans in Paris to ascertain their safety.
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in a Facebook post that he was “shocked to wake up to the news of the multiple terrorist attacks in Paris”.
“We do not know who perpetrated these ghastly murders yet. It is not the first time innocent civilians have been massacred like this in this troubled world. But each time it happens we again feel appalled and outraged beyond words, for an attack like this is in fact an attack on our shared humanity,” Lee said.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families, and to the people and government of Paris and France.”
“I am just about to leave for Antalya in Turkey for the G20 meeting, where one agenda item is terrorism. This latest incident renders our discussions more relevant and urgent than ever.”
Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean said on Facebook that he was following the latest developments in Paris closely.
“Condolences to our French friends over the loss of so many lives. We wish them courage and steadfastness as they deal with the situation,” said Teo, who is also Co-ordinating Minister for National Security.
“Even with the best efforts by security agencies, such attacks can still occur. It's important that our social & psychological defence remains strong, and that we are all ready to withstand and recover from any attack which may occur, and remain united and strong,” Teo added.
MFA has issued a statement on the Paris attacks.
“Singapore strongly condemns the multiple terrorist attacks in Paris on 13 November 2015 and hopes for a speedy resolution to the crisis. ”
“MFA and our Embassy in Paris have been monitoring developments closely and we are contacting registered Singaporeans in Paris to ascertain their safety. Singaporeans residing in and travelling to Paris are advised to stay indoors, monitor local news, and heed the instructions of the local authorities.”
The ministry said Singaporeans should contact the Singapore Embassy at +33 6 7503 2555 or singemb_par@mfa.sg if they require any urgent assistance. Alternatively, they may contact the 24-hour MFA Duty Office at +65 6379 8800 / 8855 or mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sg.
It added that Singaporeans who are in or visiting Paris are advised to register with the Singapore Embassy at http://eregister.mfa.gov.sg/.