The problem with incidents is that it involves a lot of he said she said so you don’t know who’s telling the truth.
However, with the help of modern technology like surveillance cameras, the truth can be uncovered relatively quickly.
LTA Says Officer Did Not Push Man On E-Scooter Onto Ground, Will Get Police To Investigate Thoroughly
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) said that there was an allegation circulating on the internet that an enforcement official kicked a rider off his e-scooter.
A social media post had gone viral which shared the allegation along with photos of an enforcement officer and a man lying on the ground.
LTA has since responded saying that the account that has been circulating which alleges that the incident happened on Thursday afternoon is in fact “unfounded and false”.
What Actually Happened
LTA has clarified that its active mobility enforcement officers (AMEOs) in Yishun had caught sight of the man riding a non-compliant e-scooter on a footpath.
“The rider did not stop when signalled by AMEOs but instead turned around and attempted to escape. In the course of evasion, he lost control of his device and fell,” said LTA.
“As his particulars were being taken down by an AMEO, the rider tried to flee a second time. Another AMEO then held onto him to prevent his escape and both fell in the process.”
The police are currently investigating the incident.
LTA Takes Serious View Of False Allegations
While LTA said that they do take a serious view of allegations made against its officers, it also takes a serious view of false allegations.
“If substantiated, we will not hesitate to take action. At the same time, we will not condone baseless accusations to discredit our AMEOs,” said LTA.
They also urge that the public stop spreading fake news and ensure that the information is factual and from a reputable source, not just hearsay before proceeding to share it online.
“We urge members of the public to exercise responsibility when posting information online, and to refrain from spreading unsubstantiated allegations.”
An Officer Kicking A PMD Rider Actually Happened Before
Perhaps the person who conjured up this story was inspired by a previous incident wherein an officer really did ninja kick someone off a moving PMD.
I have to admit, it takes skills.
Last December, LTA was forced to take action and suspend a Certis auxiliary police officer after he was filmed kicking a rider off a speeding e-scooter.
You can watch the video here.
E-Scooter Ban In Singapore
The E-scooter or personal mobility device (PMD) ban in Singapore was a hotly contested topic, but in the end, it was still implemented and people have learnt to live with it.
It was first announced that the PMD ban would kick in beginning 5 November 2019.
However, there would be an advisory or grace period until 31 December 2019 for riders to come to terms with the new ruling.
After which, enforcement action will take place and those caught riding an e-scooter on footpaths will be liable for a fine up to S$2,000 and/or jail up to three months.
Yes, this also includes other types of PMDs like hoverboards and electric unicycle which was banned at a later date.
