Singapore Issues First Restriction Order for Incel-Radicalised Youth

Singapore has issued its first restriction order under the Internal Security Act (ISA) for a 14-year-old boy who displayed signs of radicalisation through a blend of extremist ideologies. Announced on September 9, 2023, by the Internal Security Department (ISD), this case highlights the rising trend of youth self-radicalisation influenced by what is termed a “salad bar” of ideologies.

The boy, a Secondary Three student, became involved with far-right extremism, expressed support for the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS), and identified with the incel subculture. His engagement with extremist content began in mid-2024, culminating in a pledge of allegiance to ISIS by April 2023. The ISD described “salad bar” ideologies as a phenomenon where individuals selectively adopt beliefs from various extremist movements, often contradictory in nature.

In an alarming development, this youth was among the youngest individuals targeted by the ISD. He previously interacted with far-right extremist figures through online platforms, where he absorbed anti-Semitic beliefs and expressed a strong animosity towards Jewish individuals while also rejecting anti-Muslim rhetoric from far-right circles. The ISD noted that his understanding of these conflicting ideologies was superficial, indicating a lack of critical thinking skills.

Influence of Online Extremism

The youth’s radicalisation journey began with exposure to far-right content, leading him to join online chat groups that shared extremist material. He became engrossed in anti-Semitic propaganda, idolising figures such as Adolf Hitler. Concurrently, he adopted certain far-left beliefs, including anti-Zionism and socialism, which he viewed as oppositional to Western capitalist ideals.

In November 2022, the boy encountered pro-ISIS content on social media. His subsequent involvement in pro-ISIS online communities convinced him of the group’s violent agenda aimed at establishing an Islamic caliphate. Following his pledge of allegiance, he began to see himself as part of ISIS, aspiring to support its cause and idolising figures like Osama bin Laden, whom he regarded as a pivotal figure in modern jihad.

While the youth shared ISIS-related materials with peers, the ISD confirmed that none were radicalised by his actions. He did not manifest any concrete plans for violence but expressed violent ideations, including aspirations to kill Jews and carry out a school shooting, viewing such attacks as justified forms of resistance.

Path to Rehabilitation

To address his radicalisation, the youth is set to work with a counsellor from the Religious Rehabilitation Group (RRG). The agency aims to counteract the ideology he has adopted, focusing on psychological and social rehabilitation. This process will also tackle his susceptibility to extremist beliefs and provide mentoring support, acknowledging his young age.

The ISD underscored the importance of support from the youth’s family and school to ensure his successful rehabilitation and educational continuity. This case illustrates a broader global trend where young individuals, as digital natives, become more susceptible to radicalisation through various online extremist materials. The ISD cautioned that the “salad bar” approach to radicalisation poses a severe threat when it leads to violent intent.

In related news, the ISD also issued a restriction order for 30-year-old Muhammad Jihadul Mustaqiim Mahmud, who harboured aspirations to engage in armed conflict linked to the Syrian civil war. His case serves as a reminder of the domestic security challenges posed by overseas conflicts and the motivations they create for individuals in Singapore.

As Singapore continues to grapple with issues of radicalisation, the ISD’s actions reflect a proactive approach to countering extremism and ensuring community safety. The agency remains vigilant in monitoring and addressing the evolving landscape of radical ideologies, particularly among its youth population.