Police Tactical Unit (Singapore)

Hence, in 1952, the first Riot Squad was formed with 60 junior officers deliberately chosen from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds, and who had been screened to ensure no relations to any political party or faction.

These officers underwent rigorous (military) training conducted by Colonel William E. Fairbairn, who was formerly the Assistant Commissioner of the Shanghai Municipal Police Armed Reserve.

The POT, once fully implemented in 2023, will work alongside its regular counterparts in major events such as riots, national emergencies, and public order incidents, as well as possible terrorist attacks.

The red beret was introduced to facilitate ease of spotting PTU officers in the event of a major crowd control incident.

The combat uniform was also redesigned to a more loose-fitting attire with utility pockets, and the material changed to a cotton-polyester mix which is more durable and fire resistant.

The anti-riot vehicle is one of the most well-recognised icons of the Singapore PTU amongst the local population, commonly referred to as the Ang Chia (literally "Red Vehicle" in Hokkien ).
Modern Ang Chia anti-riot vehicles parked on the side of a road somewhere in Orchard.
A PTU officer on patrol at Raffles City during a rehearsal for the National Day Parade 2005 . He wore a transitional attire consisting of the new red beret together with the old combat uniform.