Common Misperception
The other day, I approached someone I knew and managed to “borrow” $5 from him after telling him that I would be angry if he did not lend me the money. In fact, I did not intend to return him the money. If he reported the matter to the police, I would not be arrested because it was only a loan and I would say that I intended to return the money to him.

Facts
You will be arrested. In fact, if you threaten to "borrow" anything, e.g. Walkman, watch, belt, etc. and have the intention to keep them for your own use, you have committed an offence and are liable to be arrested.

Common Misperception
I can stay away from home as long as I like and I do not have to listen to my parents because they have no control over me!

Facts
You are wrong! As long as you are aged 16 years and below, your parents have the legal right to make a complaint against you for your delinquency to the Juvenile Court. The Juvenile Court can order you sent to a home or institution for a special period not exceeding 3 years, placed under the supervision of a probation officer or of some other person appointed for the purpose.

Punishments

Gangs are illegal in Singapore! According to the law, gangs are called unlawful societies. Thus, anyone involved in gang activities, is a member of an unlawful society!

Being a member of an unlawful society:

Imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years; or

A fine not exceeding $3000; or both.

Being a member of an unlawful assembly:

Imprisonment for a term which may exceed to 6 months; or

fine; or both.

Being a member of an unlawful assembly armed with offensive weapon:

Imprisonment for a term which may extend to 2 years; or

fine; or both.

Rioting

Imprisonment for a term which may extend to 5 years; and

caning.

Rioting with dangerous weapon

Imprisonment for a term which may extend to 7 years; and

caning.

Extortion

Imprisonment for a term of not less than 2 years and not more than 7 years; and

caning.