Chinese tourist investigated for flying drone near Singapore Parliament House

By Hoang Phong May 3, 2024 | 02:20 am PT

A general view of the Parliament House in Singapore, June 2, 2016. Photo by Reuters

A Chinese tourist was put under a probe for operating a drone in the vicinity of Singapore's Parliament House with the intention of capturing 'memorable moments.'

He was arrested by police earlier this week for further investigation, the Chinese Embassy in Singapore wrote on its WeChat account on May 1.

Following the incident, the Chinese embassy warned its citizens traveling to Singapore to abide by the city-state’s drone regulations, the Independent Singapore News reported.

Under the current regulations, operating drones without a permit within designated areas, such as within a five-kilometer radius of airports or air force bases, restricted zones, or protected areas, or exceeding 200 feet above sea level, is illegal.

Those breaking the law could face fines of up to S$50,000 (US$36,930), a maximum two-year jail term, or both.

Singapore's Parliament House and the surrounding area are under no-fly zones.

The House is a public building and a cultural landmark in Singapore. It houses the Parliament of Singapore and is in the Civic District of the Downtown Core within the Central Area.