Singapore's longest serving police chief Goh Yong Hong dies at age 76

Singapore's longest-serving police chief, Mr Goh Yong Hong, died on Friday at the age of 76.

According to The Straits Times, he was admitted to the Singapore General Hospital two weeks ago for an illness.

During his 13-year term as Commissioner of Police, Mr Goh initiated community policing, with the Neighbourhood Watch Scheme and the National Crime Prevention Council set set up during his watch.

Mr Goh joined the Singapore Police Force in 1961 and retired as Commissioner of Police in 1992. Over his 31 years of service, Mr Goh held various appointments in police land divisions and the Criminal Investigation Department.

He became Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) in 1976 before assuming the position of Commissioner of Police in 1979.

In 1983, Mr Goh oversaw the set up of the Neighbourhood Police Posts, which marked a shift from reactive, investigation-based policing to a more proactive policing approach that emphasised prevention and community co-operation. During his tenure, he also introduced new technology to improve police operational and investigation capabilities.

In a media statement on Saturday, Commissioner of Police, Mr Hoong Wee Teck expressed his deepest condolences to the family: "We are saddened by the passing of Mr Goh Yong Hong. He was an exemplary leader who had built a strong foundation of professionalism and community trust for the Force.

"My officers and I are the fortunate beneficiaries of his legacy, and will continue his work to make Singapore the safest city in the world. We thank Mr Goh for his many contributions to the SPF."

candicec@sph.com.sg