Singapore passed a bill on Monday that allows for the indefinite holding of “dangerous offenders” even after they complete their jail sentences.

Under the Sentence for Enhanced Public Protection (SEPP) law, individuals convicted of serious violent offenses, like culpable homicide and attempted murder or serious sexual offenses such as rape and sexual penetration of a minor, may continue to be held after the end of their sentences, rather than being automatically released; these offenders will now require the approval of the Home Affairs Minister to determine if they are no longer a threat to the public.

Law and Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam emphasized the need to protect the public from offenders who continue to pose a real danger. He clarified that the decision to impose a normal sentence or the SEPP sentence lies with the court, ensuring discretion in the process.

The Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Law jointly released a statement highlighting the bill’s aim to better protect the public from dangerous offenders. They referred to cases involving serial sex offenders who targeted children and recidivist offenders who committed crimes after being released from prison.

However, some experts have raised concerns regarding the assessment of offenders. Siraj Shaik Aziz, director of Silvester Legal LLC, questioned how rehabilitative potential can be accurately evaluated when an offender is assessed within an institutionalized environment. Sylvia Lim, a lawmaker from the Workers’ Party, also expressed concerns about the potential for inaccurate predictions of future violence, which could result in the over-detention of individuals deemed to be dangerous.