Singapore forensic team returns home after aiding Nepal flood victim identification
Thirty-five Singapore police and forensic officers completed a two-week mission in Nepal, assisting with disaster victim identification and drone surveillance before being welcomed back in Singapore.
In response to the deadly flash floods along the Nepal-China border that killed at least 1,400 people, Singapore dispatched 35 police and forensic officers under Operation Vanguard from Sep 1 to 18. The mixed team of SPF, HTX and HSA personnel assisted Nepali authorities with victim identification, conducting post-mortem procedures, fingerprint lifting, DNA collection and forensic documentation. They also provided drone-training to about 20 Nepali officers, enabling aerial searches in inaccessible zones.
Officers faced harsh environments, with bodies often decomposed and difficult terrain, yet reported sustained focus and resilience. Upon returning, they were honored at HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir, where Minister for Law Edwin Tong praised the mission’s demonstration of Singapore’s commitment and the expertise gained. The experience is expected to enhance Singapore’s own emergency response capabilities.
Why it matters
The mission shows how international forensic cooperation can aid disaster response and bring closure to families of victims.
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