News Update Singapore Systems to check threats

THERE are appropriate security processes and systems to monitor and guard against potential security threats at the national level, said the Ministry of Defence on Tuesday.

In a statement responding media queries on the detention of a full-time national serviceman under the Internal Security Act, Mindef said self-radicalised Muhammad Fadil Bin Abdul Hamid, 20, was an NSF trainee undergoing section leader training in Pasir Laba Camp.

'He attended but did not complete polytechnic prior to his enlistment for NS in September 2009,' said Mindef. 'Investigations have shown that this case involves an individual who took the wrong path.'

Mindef added that the Singapore Armed Forces will continue to 'maintain a high degree of vigilance against any potential threats that may surface.'

Fadil, who was detained on April 4, had become self-radicalised after searching the Internet for jihadist propaganda and videos. He was influenced by the teachings of radical clerics posted online 'and became convinced that it was his religious duty to undertake armed jihad alongside fellow militants and strive for martyrdom,' said a statement from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

He initiated communication with radical cleric Anwar Al-Awlaki and expressed a desire to undertake militant jihad in places like Palestine, Iraq and Afghanistan.