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| Agency overview | |
|---|---|
| Formed | 23 August 1948 (as the Singapore Special Branch) |
| Preceding agency | |
| Jurisdiction | Government of Singapore |
| Headquarters | New Phoenix Park, 30 Irrawaddy Road, Singapore |
| Employees | Classified |
| Annual budget | Classified |
| Minister responsible | |
| Agency executive |
|
| Parent agency | Ministry of Home Affairs |
| Website | mha |
| Agency ID | T08GA0034L |
The Internal Security Department (ISD) is the domestic intelligence, counter-espionage, counterterrorism, and primary security agency of Singapore under the purview of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). It is tasked to confront national security threats ranging from subversion or sedition, foreign influence, spying or espionage, domestic or international terrorism, and political or racial/religious extremism.[1]
Deputy Prime Minister Goh Keng Swee stated that 'an efficient secret police' was necessary to counter dangers such as insurgencies and violent rebellions.[2] The ISD is empowered to conduct mass surveillance and covert security operations; it has the utmost right to indefinitely detain without trial individuals suspected to be a threat to national security.[3]
Although the agency falls under MHA, it is autonomous within the ministry. It is led by a director, who holds the rank equivalent to a permanent secretary, and reports directly to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). The department is highly secretive; most of its personnel are only known to the country's top government officials.[1]
- ^ a b "A Cause Greater Than Our Self". Ministry of Home Affairs.
- ^ Loong, Lee Hsien (27 October 2023). "ISD's vital role in keeping Singapore safe". The Straits Times. ISSN 0585-3923. Retrieved 21 February 2024.
- ^ Singapore, National Library Board. "Internal Security Act". www.nlb.gov.sg. Retrieved 21 February 2024.