The Singapore Prisons Emergency Action Response, formerly known as Special Action Prisons Unit, is a department within the Singapore Prison Service. SPEAR Force is a highly trained elite force that is deployed for various high risk special operations, and are prepared to quell any occurrence of riots or fights within the prisons.
History
The Singapore Prisons Emergency Action Response Force was previously known as the Special Action Prisons Unit before it was renamed. SPAU was formed on 1 December 1977. SPEAR assists SPS officers in handling non-compliant inmates, intervening when necessary. Their expertise lies in using softer options like beanbag rounds and soft projectiles. They also share their tactics and insights with other Home Team units as only SPEAR has this unique expertise. Every anniversary, on 1 December, SPEAR participate in international competitions such as the Office of Law Enforcement Technology Commercialisation Mock Prison Riot where they showcase their tactical know-how and learn from counterparts from other leading prisons, correctional and law enforcement agencies. SPEAR did very well in the 2015 Mock Prison Riot, clinching champion and 1st runner–up titles in the individual and team categories respectively. SPEAR also organises the biennial Asian Prisons Lockdown Challenge to enhance tactical capabilities, knowledge exchange in prisons and correctional services in the region.
Capability
SPEAR officers are specialised in multiple areas, which are essential to make prisons safe in an ever-changing security climate, such as:
Their core functions include responding to prison contingencies and exercises, performing high risk escort duties and training prison officers in various core tactical skills.
Selection process
The selection process for suitable candidates is one of the toughest and most grueling worldwide. Modeled after the elite special forces throughout the world, candidates must go through various physically and mentally demanding challenges. They must also clear a challenging and demanding obstacle course within a stipulated time. Candidates must display grit, resolve, extreme mental and physical fortitude and teamwork to pass the selection. The five-month long training program is called SPEAR Tactical Course and it equips officers with the tactical know-how in order to handle crucial situations such as hostage rescues and high-risk escorts. At the start of STC, officers undergo a conditioning phase to bring them to their best physical condition. A main feature of STC is the close-quarters riot control, which sees officers learning an essential skill set that encompasses weapons training, close quarter combat and other tactical capabilities. Upon achieving competency in those areas, they will proceed on to harness their ability to execute scenario-based missions. Before passing out as SPEAR officers, they will embark on a 24 km route march where officers will be tasked with overcoming obstacles along the way within a given time frame.
Equipment
SPEAR force members have access to battering rams and tools for forced entry along with the following weapons:
