Internal controls in place for police to track missing people: Goh Pei Ming

Key Concepts

• Internal Controls
• Family Violence Training Package
• Family Violence Teams (FVTs)
• Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF)
• Protective Services
• Safety Planning
• Social Intervention
• Investigating Officers (IOs)
• Technological Solutions for Case Review

Internal Controls and Case Follow-up

The police have established internal controls to ensure the prompt follow-up of cases. These mechanisms include:

• Daily Case Review: Supervisors conduct daily reviews of cases to provide guidance to Investigating Officers (IOs).
• Multiple Levels of Supervision: The investigation process involves several layers of supervision.
• Regular Checks: Consistent checks are performed throughout the investigation.

Enhancements to Processes and Systems

The police have actively strengthened these processes and systems through specific enhancements:

• Family Violence Training Package (2020):
  • Target Audience: All frontline and investigation officers.
  • Objective: To adopt a sensitive approach to family violence cases, including child abuse.
  • Key Skills: Recognizing and escalating high-risk cases, and collaborating with the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF).
• Formation of Family Violence Teams (FVTs) (2023):
  • Scope: Established at all land divisions.
  • Purpose: To provide focused attention on family violence cases, including child abuse.
  • Specialized Training: FVT officers receive specific training to enhance their capabilities in handling these cases. This includes:
    • Sensitive engagement with victims.
    • Close and integrated collaboration with other agencies.

Inter-Agency Collaboration and Support

The police work closely with the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) to ensure comprehensive support for victims, particularly in cases of suspected child abuse or high-risk situations reported through MSF's national helpline.

• Triggering Collaboration:
  • When police encounter suspected child abuse.
  • When MSF receives urgent reports on high-risk cases via their national anti-violence and sexual harassment helpline.
• MSF's Role: MSF's Protective Services are engaged for:
  • Safety Planning: Developing strategies to ensure the safety of the child and family.
  • Social Intervention: Implementing measures to address the social dynamics within the family.
• Goal: To strengthen the efficiency and supervisory capabilities of IOs.

Technological Integration for Case Review

Technology has been leveraged to improve the review of cases and ensure timely action.

• Technological Solutions: Implemented to automate notifications.
• Functionality: Automatic alerts are sent to IOs and their supervisors.
• Purpose: To prompt the prompt completion of time-sensitive investigations.

Synthesis and Conclusion

The police have implemented a multi-faceted approach to address family violence and child abuse cases, combining robust internal controls with continuous system enhancements. The introduction of specialized training and dedicated Family Violence Teams, coupled with strong inter-agency collaboration with MSF, demonstrates a commitment to sensitive handling and effective intervention. Furthermore, the integration of technology streamlines case management, ensuring that time-sensitive investigations are prioritized and completed efficiently. These measures collectively aim to improve the response to vulnerable individuals and strengthen the overall investigative process.