Singapore Law Simplified

What to Do If Someone Breaches a Protection Order in Singapore

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Singapore Law Simplified
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If someone continues to harass or stalk you despite a protection order, it’s important to take immediate action. This guide explains what protection orders are, what counts as a breach, and how you can respond.

What Are Protection Orders?

In Singapore, two main types of protection orders exist:

  1. Protection Order (PO) – under the Protection from Harassment Act (POHA), for general harassment or stalking. It can:
    • Stop harassing behavior or communication.
    • Require the perpetrator to attend counselling or mediation.
  2. Personal Protection Order (PPO) – under the Women’s Charter, for family violence such as:
    • Physical abuse (injury or threats).
    • Sexual abuse (coerced sexual acts).
    • Emotional/psychological abuse (intimidation, harassment, or mental harm).

Additional orders under the Women’s Charter include emergency and exclusion orders.

What is a Breach of a Protection Order?

A breach occurs when the perpetrator disobeys any terms in the order, such as continuing harassment or committing family violence.

What Should Victims Do?

  1. Report to Police Immediately
     A breach is a criminal offence. Once reported, the police can arrest the perpetrator without a warrant and decide whether to investigate and press charges.
  2. File a Magistrate’s Complaint
     If the police do not take further action, you can file a complaint at the State Courts. A Magistrate may then order an investigation.
  3. Prepare Evidence
     Though not mandatory, having evidence (e.g. messages, recordings) helps support your case.
  4. Seek Alternative Housing
     If your home is unsafe:
    • Stay with someone you trust.
    • Consider MSF-funded crisis shelters for temporary protection.
    • Create a safety plan (e.g. pack an emergency bag).
  5. You can also reach out to Family Violence Specialist Centres for support.

Legal Consequences for Breach

  • PO Breach (POHA): Up to $5,000 fine, 6 months’ jail, or both.
  • PPO Breach (Women’s Charter): Up to $10,000 fine, 12 months’ jail, or both.
    • Harsher penalties apply for cases involving vulnerable adults.

Further charges may apply if other offences were committed during the breach.

Can a Victim Appeal the Sentence?

Victims themselves cannot appeal. Only the accused or the prosecution can. However, the prosecution may appeal if the sentence is too lenient.

Key Takeaway

If someone breaches a protection order, report it immediately, seek safe housing, and consider a Magistrate’s Complaint if needed. The authorities can arrest and prosecute the offender, and penalties can be significant. While victims can’t appeal sentencing, the prosecution can act on their behalf if necessary.