Straits Time Reflection 2

Q1a:
Why is it easy for burglers to break into stalls at the two markets in the Kallang area?
Q1b:
What is the Geylang East Central Merchants' Association going to do about the break-ins?

A1a:
The two market at the Kallang areas was an easy target for burglers to break into because the units are open at the top ,leaving it exposed to the thief. Another problem is that the stall holders like to put their money in their stall thinking that it will be safe to put there and also the thief is smart in their stealing. When a stall holder, Mdm Chen , had install a metal bar connecting over the front but the burglers still managed to steal her money tying a raffia string to a basket and lowering it into the stall.they use a broom to sweep the coins scattered on the floor which the then hoist.

A1b:
They held a meeting about this problem.They also in torch with the relevant authorities , such as the NEA and the Town councils to look into improving security possibly by modifying stall layout and design.NEA responded that those stallholder who want to equip their stalls with additional security feature like grilles could apply to do so. Hawkers are also advised not to leave valuables in their stalls and to buy insurance to guard against theft

Q2:
What do you think should be done to tighten the security of the markets? What do you think of the burglars who brazenly break into the stalls?

A2:
I think they should cover the 'holes' of the food centre and make something that can prevent the thief from climbing up the metal poles and pipes like building a height of the metal poles higher or building another wall long enough to prevent them from climbing over. stall holder also must do their job by keeping the money and valuable with them every time the leave the stall even if it was in a peak hour.they should also buy insurance to guard their stalls from being 'infested' with thieft. the two market stall holder should work together and try to catch the thieves. Another thing about the thieft is that they are foolish enough to steal oney or ransacked the stalls since there is nothing valuable there.