World · Singapore Bureau
Former deputy commissioner, SQ117 hijack responder, dies at 86
A retired police officer who reached Singapore's highest ranks and played a key role in the nation's response to a historic aircraft hijacking has passed away. He was 86.
LSN Singapore ·
The retired officer had a career spanning several decades in the Singapore Police Force, during which he rose to the rank of deputy commissioner—a milestone that reflected his distinction as the country's highest-ranking Sikh officer at the time.
Among his most notable contributions to law enforcement was his involvement in the response to SQ117, the Singapore Airlines hijacking incident that tested Singapore's security apparatus and crisis management capabilities. His role in that critical operation underscored his experience in high-stakes situations and emergency response.
Throughout his tenure with the police force, he was recognized for his dedicated service to the nation's law and order. His career trajectory exemplified professional advancement within Singapore's law enforcement hierarchy, setting a significant precedent for officers from the Sikh community in the police service.
His passing marks the end of a distinguished chapter in Singapore's policing history, leaving behind a legacy of service during a formative period of the nation's development.