Police yesterday arrested a 19-year-old Singaporean male in connection with an SMS hoax suggesting a terrorist attack in the Bugis area.

The police had received multiple calls since last Friday informing them of such an SMS.

The SMS, which had several variations, stated that terrorists were planning to bomb the Bugis area and that there were many policemen there. It advised the public to avoid the area.

Said a police spokesman yesterday: 'Although there was no credible evidence to suggest such an attack at that point in time, we took the information seriously and immediately put in place necessary precautions to enhance security in the area.

'We would like to assure the public that there is no cause for alarm as investigations have revealed that the SMS was indeed unsubstantiated.'

He stressed that the police took a very stern view of any attempt to cause undue public alarm or fear and would not hesitate to take action against such perpetrators.

Anyone found guilty of such an offence may face a maximum of one year's imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000, or both.

At Bugis Junction yesterday afternoon, it was business as usual although some shopkeepers said it was slightly less crowded than on a normal Saturday.

Police said investigations into the case are ongoing.