S'pore police question some foreign nationals after candlelight vigil supporting HK protests
Singapore police have questioned several foreign nationals over their participation in a candlelit vigil on Wednesday evening.
The event was held in support of demonstrators protesting against election restrictions in Hong Kong.
"Police confirm that several foreigners are currently assisting with investigations into offences under the Public Order Act," a statement said.
No arrests have been made.
The vigil at Speakers' Corner drew more than 200 people.
Foreign nationals 'have to abide by our laws'
The police reiterated that only Singapore citizens and permanent residents are allowed to take part in protests in the area without police permits.
"While foreigners are allowed to work or live here, they have to abide by our laws," the police said.
"They should not import their domestic issues from their countries into Singapore and conduct activities which can disturb public order."
The hour-long event was organised by Jolovan Wham and Rachel Zeng.
Participants kicked off by singing Hong Kong rock band Beyond's song Under a Vast Sky, which has become the protest's unofficial anthem.
They also wrote messages of solidarity for the people fighting for democracy in Hong Kong and lit candles as they sang along to other songs.
Photo: Terry Xu
On the event's Facebook page, organisers put up a link to the rules and regulations pertaining to the use of Hong Lim Park.
Foreigners and permanent residents were also reminded to apply for a permit.
The organisers also added on the page: "If you don't have a permit, you can come and 'observe'. Observing a protest or a demonstration is legal."
Mr Wham had told the Straits Times that he was not in touch with the foreigners who were questioned by the police and did not know who they were.
He also said that he had not been questioned by the police.
Sources: AFP, Straits Times, Facebook
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