Pope Francis visit: Authorities work all night to secure National Stadium for papal mass on Sept 12

Ahead of Pope Francis' papal mass at the National Stadium in Singapore on Sept 12, a massive overnight security operation was conducted to ensure the venue is free from any potential threats. Security forces from the Singapore Police Force and the Ministry of Defence worked meticulously, supported by specialized units like the Police Security Command and the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Explosive Defence Group (CBRE).

The operation involved at least 90 officers conducting various checks, including thorough sweeps of the stadium’s dome, 70 meters above the ground, to ensure no suspicious objects were hidden. Bomb-sniffing dogs and their handlers also inspected the venue, and every part of the stage and seating area was cleared for safety. The National Stadium, Singapore’s largest concert venue, can accommodate up to 55,000 people.

On the day of the mass, about 50,000 Roman Catholics are expected to attend the service, which is part of the Pope’s three-day visit to Singapore and the final stop on his four-nation Asia tour. Volunteers for the event, numbering around 5,000, have been helping with preparations, including multimedia setup and logistics.

Security checks in the stadium’s vicinity began as early as Sept 6, ensuring a smooth and safe environment for the mass, where Pope Francis is expected to deliver a homily and take a lap around the stadium in his Popemobile.