Singapore questions foreigners over Hong Kong vigil

[SINGAPORE] Singapore police have questioned several foreign nationals over their participation in a candlelit vigil held in support of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong.

"Police confirm that several foreigners are currently assisting with investigations into offences under the Public Order Act," the Singapore Police Force said in an email response to an AFP query Thursday.

"No arrests have been made," the statement said, without giving further details on the number being investigated or their nationalities.

The candlelit vigil drew more than 100 people Wednesday night at the downtown Speakers' Corner, Singapore's sole free-speech zone where protests are allowed.

Only Singapore citizens and permanent residents are allowed to take part in protests in the area without police permits.

"While foreigners are allowed to work or live here, they have to abide by our laws," police said.

"They should not import their domestic issues from their countries into Singapore and conduct activities which can disturb public order." The hour-long vigil saw participants set up a mini-shrine for a poster of the "Goddess of Democracy" once displayed in Tiananmen Square.

Some in the crowd chanted Cantonese slogans in support of the Hong Kong demonstrators, and organisers gave short speeches voicing solidarity with the protesters who are demanding free elections in the semi-autonomous city. - AFP