The Police National Service Full-time Light Strike Force (PNSF LSF) is part of Special Operations Command (SOC), a division of Singapore Police Force, located at Queensway Base in Singapore.
History and Nature
The Police Full-time LSF was established in June 1998. In its early years, there were 4 squads, namely LSF A, LSF B, LSF C and LSF D. Each squad consisted of at least 20 men then, led by a senior officer holding a rank of inspector or above. He was assisted by a National Service Inspector (NSI).
These squads are trained mainly in riot control and every squad is capable of undertaking the task of quelling any riot which involves 80 people or less. Apart from their standard sidearms (Smith & Wesson or Taurus revolvers), these officers are also equipped with ARWEN ACE launchers, Remington pump guns, T-batons, shields and other riot gear. They are also proficient in handling and firing the Heckler & Koch MP5 submachine gun and M-16 assault rifle. They have to maintain a higher level of physical fitness than normal officers, and to be alert at all times so that they are always ready to respond within minutes to any serious emergency that may arise.
During peace time however, LSF officers periodically perform standby, patrol, covert (plain clothes) and some other policing duties with other SOC units or various police divisions.