Facts On Rela Clarified

Check ID of Rela officers, public advised - The Star, 2end Nov 2006

1. For any raid, there must be a Rela "officer" leading group of Rela members
2. The Rela officer will have an authority card, with details verified and issued by the national security division in the Prime Minister’s Department.
3. The officer will have his photograph, name and serial number stated on the card. The card is the size of a credit card, yellowish in colour and will have the words ‘Authority Card’ printed on it as well
4. Only Rela officers had the power to enter private premises to search for illegals without needing a warrant.
5. You can find out if the person having the card is really a Rela officer by calling 03-8888 6308 or 03-8888 6314. All raids conducted by Rela were also planned well in advance and recorded by the district-level offices.
6. Raids by Rela are usually carried out in teams of at least 15 to 20 people.

Something that I reproduced from The Star for ease of reading. If a few Rela members are trying to stop you at the middle of night or charging into your house, you have the right to say "no". Main point is the raid is normally conducted by 15-20 people, headed by a "officer" who holds the authority card. Any doubt, call the magic number.

Be a wise citizen by knowing your rights.