Security Lapse in Case where NSman took Individual Physical Proficiency Test on Behalf of Another
Ministry of DefenceSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns MP Er Dr Lee Bee Wah’s inquiry into a security lapse where an NSman impersonated another for an Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT). Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen explained that impersonators used original identity cards to bypass manual facial checks, which are susceptible to human error during high-volume periods. He emphasized that the SAF takes a serious view of such cheating, with punishments including the removal of ranks for officers and warrant officers caught. The SAF has since stepped up manual verification measures at camp gates and registration stations to address these identified lapses. To further reduce human error, biometric fingerprinting has been progressively introduced since 2015 and will be mandatory for all camp entrants by 2018.
Transcript
42 Er Dr Lee Bee Wah asked the Minister for Defence with regard to the recent case where an NSman took the Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) on behalf of another NSman (a) how did he gain entry into the camp and whether there was a security lapse; and (b) whether a review was carried out to tighten the security following this incident.
Dr Ng Eng Hen: MINDEF takes a serious view of this case. Cheating goes against the core values of the SAF. Every serviceman is expected to uphold a high standard of integrity and those caught cheating in the IPPT are punished. While IPPT is an individual responsibility, SAF commanders must lead by example and their units shoulder the collective responsibility to maintain fitness and performance. Officers and warrant officers caught cheating are no longer fit to command and can have their ranks removed.
In the cases involving cheating of IPPT, the NSmen had handed over their identity card to the impersonator to use to enter the camp and take the IPPT. Facial checks are conducted at entry points by sentry guards, but subject to human error, especially when large numbers are processed during IPPT sessions. The SAF acknowledges this lapse and verification measures have since been stepped up at the camp gate and IPPT registration counter and stations.
But the more secure system is to utilise technology to reduce human error. To strengthen security of entry into SAF camps, biometric fingerprinting has been progressively introduced since 2015. By 2018, all personnel, including NSmen taking their IPPT there, will be required to undergo biometric fingerprinting to enter into SAF camps.