SPF expectedly thrust into media spotlight for officer's inappropriate crime scene pose

The Singapore Police Force (SPF) has come under media spotlight after one of its officers was caught on camera giving the peace sign next to a blue tent used by SPF to cover a dead body. SPF has since issued a prompt statement acknowledging the circulation of the image, taken by the niece of the deceased.

The statement acknowledged the inappropriate action of the officer in the presence of onlookers in the vicinity, and said that the next-of-kin of the deceased has been contacted and apologised to for the officer’s actions.

“All police officers are expected to maintain professionalism in managing incidents. The Police will be taking internal action against the officer,” read the statement. It also said that the post pertains to “a case of unnatural death”.

The issue emerged after the family member of the deceased shared the image on social media accusing the officer of treating the situation as a happy matter, and added that it was disrespectful. She called out the officer for posing like her aunt's body was a background or an accessory to a photo.

While the initial post has since been deleted by the family member, she later said the police had called to apologise and the apology has been accepted. She also said she appreciated the “fast action” and assurance they will re-enforce “sensitivity” when handling such sensitive cases.

According to Meltwater, mentions of SPF online increased by 160% since the incident. Some of the top keywords include "blue tent", "officer", "photo" and "v sign".

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