A viral video showing a Land Transport Authority (LTA) officer scolding a worker at a worksite has prompted the agency to issue a public statement, acknowledging the officer’s conduct was inappropriate.
The footage, shared on the social media page SGRV, was allegedly recorded on 24 August at 601A Tanah Merah Coast Road.
It shows an LTA officer reprimanding a worker, reportedly a migrant worker, over a driving licence and seatbelt issue.
In the video, the officer can be heard questioning the worker’s competence, saying, “How you actually learn your (driving) licence, what did the school teach you?”
He also pointed to the worker’s licence, issued in 2023, and threatened to break it.
At one point, the officer appeared to slap a card, believed to be the worker’s driving licence, against his helmet while demanding, “You want me to break it? How you actually learn your licence?”
He then threw the licence to the ground. The worker remained silent throughout the confrontation.
The incident drew a mixed response online. Some comments questioned whether the officer’s actions amounted to physical abuse and misuse of authority.
Others argued that while safety was critical, enforcement should not involve physical or threatening gestures.
One commenter noted, “It don’t give you the authority to use physical to anyone. Be it with/without helmet. This can be considered assault and abuse of enforcement power.”
Others defended the officer’s concern for safety, with one remarking, “Safety first, kena scolding better than dying. Live another day to see your family back in your homeland. Seatbelt very important especially in larger vehicles.”
Some also compared the officer’s stern tone to the strict discipline associated with military training, saying the approach was reminiscent of how army superiors instil compliance.
LTA’s response
In a statement on 25 August, LTA confirmed that the incident involved one of its engineers and a contractor’s staff member.
“While the engineer was addressing safety lapses at the worksite, the manner in which he did so was inappropriate. We do not condone such behaviour,” LTA said in its post.
The agency added that the engineer has been counselled and reminded of professional conduct standards. He has also expressed regret for his behaviour and apologised directly to the worker involved.
“We take this matter seriously and will continue to reinforce the need for respectful and professional behaviour when upholding safety standards,” LTA said.
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