In the age of rampant misinformation via the internet (a phenomenon aptly referred to as ‘Fake News‘), even government agencies have to start making official statements to spurn the rumours of the week.
Case in point — this viral message circulating on social media about a kidnapping that went on at Jurong Point Shopping Centre. The message warned folks to keep their children close because two men were apparently arrested for kidnapping two children at the mall on March 27.
“The Police would like to clarify that the information is not true. There were no reports made to the police of a child kidnapping incident.”
Warning members of the public not to spread unverified reports, the police asserted that they’d be more than willing to take action against individuals who knowingly spreads false information.
The sad thing is that it’s not the first time this happened — folks just love spreading stories about the existence of Chinese child-kidnapping syndicates preying for young kids at shopping areas.
Case numero dos: A rather silly rumour that says that you’ll be fined $200 if you commit the heinous crime of leaving behind used tissues in bowls, plates and cups. The horror!
Nonetheless, do dispose your used tissues properly though — it’s just a matter of hygiene, and shouldn’t require a fine for you to do so.
