ASP Ang Shermaine is a Senior Investigation Officer with the General Investigation Team at the Central Police Division. She was awarded the SPF Scholarship and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Oxford.
ASP Ang Shermaine thrives in a fast-paced world of criminal investigations. As a Senior Investigation Officer in the General Investigation Team at the Central Division of the Singapore Police Force (SPF), she tackles a wide range of criminal cases. Each case brings new challenges, and ASP Ang is driven by the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of victims and the community.
Though ASP Ang initially considered a career in civil service, the idea of becoming a Police officer never crossed her mind. Her perspective changed during her second year of junior college when she attended a fireside chat organised by the SPF. There, she met Police officers who shared personal stories about their work and the impact they make on society.
“I was inspired by their stories of working in the Force, about being able to help individuals from all walks of life and see parts of Singaporean society that would not normally be seen,” ASP Ang recounted. “I was drawn to their sense of pride in their work and their dedication to helping others.”
A Pathway to Purpose
After meeting other Police officers through the Aspiring Leaders Programme, ASP Ang decided to take action. “The officers I met genuinely took pride and honour in their jobs, and the challenges of their work were made more manageable because they had a strong team behind them,” she explained. “I wanted to be part of the organisation and take on a role that was meaningful.”
ASP Ang decided to apply for the prestigious SPF Scholarship, awarded by the Public Service Commission, which aligned perfectly with her desire to contribute to society in a meaningful way.
Through the scholarship, she was able to pursue a degree in History at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom. It also provided opportunities for growth and hands-on experience. One of the key highlights was the Vacation Attachment Programme, which allowed ASP Ang to intern at different SPF departments during her holidays.
“During my internships, I was able to experience the broad scope of work within the SPF and connect with serving Police officers,” ASP Ang said. “It was a great opportunity to understand the highs and lows of their roles, and it deepened my commitment to the Force before I even officially joined.”
ASP Ang Shermaine
Where Investigation Meets Impact
In her current role as a Senior Investigation Officer, ASP Ang gathers evidence, conducts interviews, makes assessments, and provides recommendations to the Attorney-General’s Chambers on how to proceed with cases. Her work can involve stakeouts, ambushes, arrest operations, and overseeing shifts, all while collaborating with her teammates to ensure justice is served.
ASP Ang’s work also highlights the complexity of human behaviour and crime. “I have to consider all sides and different angles in order to solve a case. I am also more open- minded in conversations and interviews with complainants and defendants. It allows me to check my biases and listen for the truth,” she noted.
One of her most memorable cases involved a suspect who had allegedly evaded a police roadblock and fled the scene. Within an hour, the Police had successfully arrested the suspect and his accomplices. “What made this case stand out was how all the Police units came together to locate the subjects swiftly,” ASP Ang highlighted. “When I arrived at the scene, the first responders had gathered all the facts and evidence, which allowed me to make a holistic assessment. It showed me that it takes a whole team with a single purpose to bring a suspect to justice.”
Despite the demanding nature of her job, ASP Ang finds deep fulfillment in the work she does. “I enjoy the sense of closure and justice I bring to victims when a case concludes,” she said. “I also like interacting with different people and going to different places during investigations. Most of all, I value the camaraderie within the General Investigation Team. I love that we always have each other’s backs!”
Striving for Growth
Looking ahead, ASP Ang’s long-term goal is to continue growing in the Force, learning from her experiences as an officer on the ground, and eventually transitioning to policy-related work. “I hope to contribute to protecting Singapore and push my personal boundaries to serve,” she remarked.
For those considering a career in the SPF, ASP Ang offers this advice: “If you’re passionate about rising to the challenge of keeping Singapore safe and enjoy working alongside others who share the same cause, join us. If you never try, you’ll never know. Wearing blue might be for you!”
