I read with concern the report “Number of foreigners as police officers is ‘for society to decide’” (May 3).
Certain issues should be considered and addressed properly before the Home Affairs Ministry decides to recruit any foreigners into the Home Team.
First, I am concerned the foreign police officers may come from a culture steeped in corruption — even among civil servants — and about whether they would be susceptible to bribery here, which would affect the integrity of our police force.
Second, in the event of a riot or protest here, would they side with their compatriots instead of doing what they should do?
Third, if these police officers do not speak English clearly or well enough or cannot comprehend locals, such a communication breakdown could have unintended or disastrous repercussions.
WENDY SOH
*Article first appeared on TODAY Voices (6 May)