No, ICA did not say anything. Don't assume I've brought in a lot of knives. Thanks.
Knives are classified as "offensive weapons". If you bring in a teeny weeny folder it should be ok (unless it is assisted or can flick open) but larger knives (esp. more than 6") are subject to scrutiny.
I'll be happy to discuss in PM with you. Sensitive info ah.
Wait mata say I encouraging people/disclosing procedures to bring in knives...
I think you are confused... Even a teeny weeny folder can be considered an offensive weapon. By definition
an "offensive weapon" includes any instrument which if used as a weapon of offence is likely to cause hurt. Which actually includes a lot of things from bottles, to chairs and those old motorola water bottle handphones. The offensive weapons act do however mention that it is only considered to be an offensive weapon if it is carried in public or gazetted area for unlawful purposes.
Are you thinking of scheduled weapons? Because at least there is a mention of knives in that section. Scheduled weapons...
1. Any knife, sometimes known as a flick knife, which has a blade which opens automatically by hand pressure applied to a button, spring or other device in or attached to the handle of the knife.
2. Any knife, sometimes known as a gravity knife, which has a blade which is released from the handle or sheath thereof by the force of gravity or the application of centrifugal force and which, when released, is locked in place by means of a button, spring, lever or other device.
3. Any whip manufactured from bicycle or motor cycle chains or from any similar kind of chainwork. (very polular in the 60s and 70s from what I've heard).
4. All kinds of knuckledusters.
5. Any blade or other instrument attached to or forming part of a bicycle pump, metal-pipe or stick, and concealed therein, which is capable of being used for cutting or stabbing.
6. Any sword, machete or parang, axe, sickle, bearing scraper, spear, bayonet, iron rod, and the nancha-ku (segments of wood or metal joined by a chain, leather strap or cord).
Part 1 and 2 covers the auto, balis, and the assisted knives. Assisted folders are considered autos in Singapore unlike in US. The US laws consider a knife an auto only if it is deployed by a button or trigger mechanism on the handle.
Part 6 is where we get into the grey area. How big does a knife has to be before it is considered a sword/machete/parang? There are no mention anywhere in any acts or statutes. There are also no mention of the 6inch rule that is often quoted as it is an ICA and SPF standing order, not a law.
I don't think there's anything wrong with collecting knives and the subject of bringing in knives is definitely not a sensitive topic. Anyone who meets the background checks and record keeping requirements can import in knives and set up another Sheares Technology. All they need is to apply through TDB and AED for the necessary permits. For individuals there are no restrictions at all as long as the knives meets the above mentioned criterias. I and I believe many others have emailed AED and they have always maintained that it is ok to bring in knives for our own lawful use or as collectibles as long as it is not for retail. The standing order at ICA is to refer any blades to SPF for clearance. Anything less you'll only need to sign a police advice on lawful use of knives and responsibility of keeping it. After signing its off you go to enjoy your blade. Being polite helps when collecting knives from ICA. If you don't go there to collect within a week or so it will be disposed by them.
If it is referred to Cantonment then you'd collect it only if the duty officer is satisfied with your explaination. Then its sign the advice and go home with the blade. If he isn't satisfied or feel it falls under the scheduled weapons category it may be disposed or rendered safe. If you're caught bringing in an auto... Good luck to you.
The procedures are not spelled out anywhere but a few emails and phonecalls will usually settle that...