Subway firm sorry for graffiti lapse in Singapore

Singapore's subway operator has apologised after two Europeans allegedly broke into a depot and spray-painted graffiti on a train, a stunt that staff mistook as an advertisement for two days.

SMRT Corp has added razor wire to perimeter fences, more cameras and foot patrols by guards after the incident on 16 May, which brought into question the city-state's preparedness against possible terrorist attacks. "We deeply regret that a serious security lapse occurred in our depot," the chief executive, Saw Phaik Hwa, said.

Oliver Fricker of Switzerland has been charged with trespassing and vandalism, and an arrest warrant has been issued for Lloyd Dane Alexander of Britain. Mr Fricker is free on bail; Mr Alexander fled the country and is at large.

Vandalism carries a fine of up to SG$2,000 (£970) or up to three years in jail, in addition to three to eight strokes of a cane.