Archive of "Fighting the social evil", The Straits Times, 21 July 1939

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FIGHTING THE SOCIAL EVIL

Comment On Power Of Police

THE duty of the police in safeguarding public morals is limited to enforcing the law. "The slightest deviation from such a policy, in this matter more than in any other, would lead to the risk of very serous persecution or connivance," states Mr. R. H. de S. Onraet, the Inspector General of Police, in dealing in his annual report with the problem of prostitution.

The law of the Colony, he goes on, is based on the law of the United Kingdom, and that human nature is not subject to climatic variations is well proved by a visit to, for instance, Jermyn Street, the dock area of Southampton, or street corners at Woolwich or Sandhurst at the recognized hours.

The only difference is to be found In the text of the law in the words “persistently solicits.” “The courts have to be satisfied on this point by evidence independent of the police. This evidence has not been forthcoming in the city of Singapore,” states Mr. Onraet.

Action against the local brothels - two women living together - was continued, but rapid changes of addresses and fines of $1 make matters difficult.

Action was taken against procurers and traffickers whenever evidence was forthcoming.

Male prostitution and other forms of beastliness were stamped out as and when opportunity occurred.

=See also=
 * Section 377A of the Penal Code (Singapore)

=References=
 * The Straits Times, 21 July 1939.

=Acknowledgements=

This article was archived by Roy Tan.