Singapore to deploy thumbprint scanners at checkpoints

Singapore, April 18 (IANS) A new security system will be in place at Singapore’s air, land and sea checkpoints from Wednesday, the immigration and checkpoints authority (ICA) said on Monday.

The new system, BioScreen, will be introduced to capture the thumbprints of visitors arriving and departing at Singapore’s checkpoints, said ICA, adding that the system will help to "strengthen its verification of the identities of travellers," Channel News Asia reported.

Under the BioScreen system, travellers aged six and above using the manned counters at immigration checkpoints will be required to scan both their thumbprints upon arrival and departure.

"BioScreen clearance for those travelling by motorcycles, cars and lorries will be implemented at a later date," said ICA.

A trial of the BioScreen system was carried out at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal last year.