SINGAPORE. TOUGHER ANTI-TERRORISM LAW ENACTED
October 23, 2007: Singapore’s Parliament passed the Suppression of Bombings Act - with a new anti-terror law to facilitate global cooperation and to mete out stiffer penalties against perpetrators.
The new law will expand the scope for international cooperation to tackle terrorist bombings.
This includes extradition of suspects even if there is no extradition treaty between Singapore and the other country.
There is also a provision to punish those who flout the new law outside Singapore, as they will be charged and tried as if the offence had been committed in Singapore.
Home Affairs Minister Wong Kan Seng said anyone participating in a terrorist bombing resulting in fatalities will face the death penalty.
Those who helped to deliver, plant or set off explosives, or instigate a bombing will also be guilty of an offence.
Under the new law, it is also a crime to withhold information from the authorities.
Mr Wong said, "Given the devastating consequences that will arise from a bombing, everyone must play a part. There are adequate safeguards for the person who provides information in good faith; they will be protected against any civil or criminal proceedings.
"Conversely, if they don't disclose such information, then the person is liable to a fine not exceeding S$50,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years or both." (Sources: CAN, 24/10/2007)
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