This collection constitutes the police force’s riot gear from the 1950s to the 1960s. It includes a pistol holder, baton, truncheon, intercom, shield, turret bell and radio. During this period, policemen carrying such gear were a frequent sight on Singapore’s streets. Several significant events accounted for the high security. The Maria Hertogh riots in December 1950 had left 18 people dead and 173 injured, while the Hock Lee Bus Riots in 1955 resulted in more deaths. In 1955 alone, the police force tackled 300 strikes. A formal Police Riot Squad was finally created in 1965.
