Misbehaving In Public: 5 Common Offences In Singapore Explained

It only takes one bad decision in public to land you in serious trouble. Maybe you had a few drinks, got into an argument, or said something out of line to a uniformed officer. In Singapore, even seemingly minor actions in public can lead to criminal charges.

The rules are strict, and the consequences are real. Fines, jail time, or even a criminal record can follow you for offences you didn’t know were that serious. That’s why it’s important to understand where the line is—before you accidentally cross it.

This guide breaks down what misbehaving in public actually means under Singapore law. From common offences to real-life examples and penalties, we’ll explain what you need to know to stay safe, informed, and out of court.

What Counts As Misbehaving In Public In Singapore?

Misbehaving in public in Singapore refers to actions that disrupt public peace, cause annoyance, or endanger others in communal spaces. Such conduct is governed by laws like the Penal Code and the Miscellaneous Offences (Public Order and Nuisance) Act.

1. Causing A Public Nuisance

Causing a public nuisance means doing something that causes danger, injury, or annoyance to the public or people nearby. It can also include blocking traffic, disturbing peace, or creating a scene in public spaces.

Under Section 268 of the Penal Code, a person is guilty of public nuisance if their act or failure to act results in harm or disruption to the community. This includes anything that interferes with the public’s right to move freely or feel safe in shared spaces.

Here are some common situations that may count as public nuisance:

• Gathering a large crowd that obstructs pedestrian or vehicle flow
• Shouting or making a scene
• Ignoring police warnings
• Public intoxication with disorder
• Taunting public officers at a scene

If convicted, the offender may face:

• Up to 3 months’ jail
• A fine of up to $2,000
• Or both

These penalties are set out under Section 268 read with Section 290 of the Penal Code.

Real-Life Case Example:

In 2024, four men disrupted a crime scene along Sam Leong Road. Police had cordoned off the area, but the men approached it and refused to follow instructions to use an alternative route. Three of them allegedly hurled abusive words at the officers, while the fourth filmed the incident. They eventually left, but all four were charged with causing a public nuisance and insulting public servants.

2. Fighting In Public (Affray)

Fighting in public, also known as affray, happens when two or more people disturb public peace by physically fighting in a public place. It doesn’t matter if anyone was hurt—just the act of fighting is enough to be charged.

Under Section 267A of the Penal Code, affray is committed when people engage in a fight that alarms or disrupts those around them. This law protects public order by discouraging violent outbursts in communal spaces.

Here’s a quick guide to identify if a public altercation could lead to an affray charge:

There is no need for a formal complaint from victims. Once police determine that public peace was disturbed, they may proceed with charges.

Under Section 267B of the Penal Code, anyone convicted of affray may face:

• Up to 1 year in prison
• A fine of up to $5,000
• Or both

Real-Life Case Example:

In late 2024, a fight broke out at a KTV lounge involving three uniformed personnel who had reportedly consumed alcohol beforehand. The altercation caused property damage, including broken glassware and overturned furniture. All three individuals were later charged with affray and received fines ranging from $1,000 to $2,500.

3. Disorderly Behaviour In Public

Disorderly behaviour in public refers to rude, aggressive, or disruptive actions that upset others in shared or sensitive spaces. It includes shouting, making a scene, or using offensive language in areas where peace is expected.

This offence is covered under Section 20 of the Miscellaneous Offences (Public Order and Nuisance) Act. It applies to behaviour in public places like roads, parks, malls, courts, places of worship, or near government buildings.

Here are common actions that may lead to a charge:

Even if no one is physically harmed, the mere act of creating discomfort or tension in public can result in a disorderly behaviour charge.

If found guilty, an offender may face:

• A fine of up to $2,000
• Up to 6 months’ imprisonment
• Or both

For repeat offenders, the punishment increases to:

• A fine of up to $5,000
• Up to 12 months’ imprisonment
• Or both

Real-Life Case Example:

In 2022, a woman disrupted court proceedings by yelling insults at a judge during a hearing. She had been asked to step out to fix her mask but responded by shouting phrases that disrespected the court. She was later charged for behaving in a disorderly manner in a courtroom.

4. Abusing A Public Servant

Abusing a public servant means using words, actions, or force to insult, threaten, or interfere with a public officer while they’re doing their job. This includes verbal abuse, physical intimidation, and even minor acts of aggression like pushing or tapping.

In Singapore, such offences are taken seriously. They are covered under multiple laws including the Protection from Harassment Act (POHA) and Penal Code. Public servants have legal protection when performing official duties, and any interference with their work can result in criminal charges.

Let’s look at each type in more detail with examples:

• Verbal Abuse or Insults (Section 6, POHA)

Using rude, threatening, or offensive language towards a public servant is an offence, even if you don’t touch them. Saying something abusive, sending threatening messages, or posting harmful comments online can all qualify.

For example, a woman in court refused to fix her mask and shouted insults at the judge. She called it a “kangaroo court” and said she did not respect the judge. She was charged under Section 6(3) of the Protection from Harassment Act. Because she had committed similar offences before, she faced harsher punishment under Section 8(1)(d).

If convicted, a person can face up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $5,000, or both.

• Using Criminal Force (Section 353, Penal Code)

Using criminal force means physically acting against a public servant in a way that stops them from doing their job. Even simple acts like pushing an officer’s hand away, tugging at their uniform, or interfering with their equipment can qualify.

In 2023, NEA officers approached a man and woman who were smoking in a prohibited area at Orchard Link. The man tapped an officer’s body camera and pulled on his lanyard. The woman pushed the other officer’s hand and tried to touch his face. Both were charged with using criminal force and verbal abuse.

Under Section 353 of the Penal Code, this offence is punishable by up to 4 years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both.

• Causing Physical Harm (Section 332, Penal Code)

This is the most serious offence involving public servants. If someone deliberately injures an officer to stop them from carrying out their duties, they can be charged under Section 332 of the Penal Code.

A serious case occurred in 2023 involving a 72-year-old man. He assaulted a bus driver who reminded him to wear his mask, and later resisted arrest by threatening to kill two police officers. During the scuffle, he burned one officer with a lit cigarette. The man received a jail sentence of more than nine years for several charges, including voluntarily causing hurt to deter a public servant from his duty.

The punishment for this offence includes up to 7 years’ imprisonment. The court may also impose a fine, caning, or both, depending on the severity of the assault.

Public servants play a vital role in keeping Singapore safe, clean, and orderly. They enforce laws, manage public health, and ensure the smooth running of essential services. When they face abuse or violence, it puts everyone at risk and undermines public safety.

That’s why Singapore takes these offences seriously. If you insult, threaten, or assault a public servant, expect the law to respond firmly. Respect for these frontline workers helps maintain peace and order for all.

5. Being Drunk And Disruptive In Public

Being drunk and disruptive in public means behaving in a way that annoys or endangers others after consuming alcohol in a public space. In Singapore, this is a punishable offence under Section 14 of the Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act.

You can be charged if you are:

• Clearly intoxicated in a public place and unable to care for yourself
• Causing annoyance or disturbance to others while drunk
• Trespassing while intoxicated
• Refusing to leave when asked by the police

These apply whether you’re on the street, in a public park, or in a place you’re not allowed to be.

Below is a breakdown of penalties based on the specific type of offence and whether it’s a first-time or repeat offence:

1. Drunk and Incapable of Self-Care in Public

• First offence: Up to 1 month’s jail, or a fine of up to $1,000, or both
• Repeat offence: Up to 3 months’ jail, or a fine of up to $2,000, or both

2. Causing Annoyance or Trespassing While Drunk

• First offence: Up to 6 months’ jail, or a fine of up to $1,000, or both
• Repeat offence: Up to 6 months’ jail, or a fine of up to $2,000, or both

3. Disobeying Police Direction to Leave or Dispose of Alcohol

• First offence: Up to 6 months’ jail, or a fine of up to $1,000, or both
• Repeat offence: Up to 6 months’ jail, or a fine of up to $2,000, or both

These penalties aim to prevent harm and ensure that drunk behaviour doesn’t affect public safety or comfort.

Public drunkenness can lead to fights, injuries, and public discomfort. Singapore’s strict laws help prevent these risks and ensure safe, respectful shared spaces. The goal isn’t to punish casual drinking—but to stop situations where alcohol leads to disorder or danger.

If you’re drinking, know your limits and follow the rules. A night out should never end in a police report or jail cell.

Conclusion About Misbehaving In Public In Singapore

Misbehaving in public in Singapore can lead to serious consequences, even if no one is physically harmed. Offences like causing a nuisance, fighting, being drunk in public, or abusing a public servant are all taken seriously under local laws. Understanding what counts as public misbehaviour helps you stay out of legal trouble and maintain a respectful presence in shared spaces.

Tembusu Law is here to support you. Our expert criminal lawyers in Singapore offer honest guidance, legal clarity, and strong defence strategies. If you or someone you know has been charged with a public order offence, reach out to us for help and peace of mind.

Contact us today for a free legal consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Misbehaving In Public In Singapore

What Counts As Misbehaving In Public In Singapore?

It refers to actions that cause danger, disruption, or annoyance in public spaces, such as fighting, shouting, or public drunkenness.

Can I Be Arrested For Being Drunk In Public?

Yes, if you are drunk and causing annoyance or cannot take care of yourself, you may be arrested under the Liquor Control Act.

Is Verbal Abuse Towards Public Servants A Crime?

Yes, using abusive or insulting language towards public officers while they are on duty is a punishable offence under the Protection from Harassment Act.

What Happens If I Get Into A Fight In Public?

Fighting in a public place can lead to an affray charge, even if no one is seriously injured.

Are There Harsher Penalties For Repeat Offenders?

Yes, repeat offenders may face longer jail terms, higher fines, or both, depending on the offence.

Do I Need A Lawyer If I’m Charged With A Public Order Offence?

Yes, a lawyer can explain your rights, defend your case, and help reduce possible penalties.