Following the massive earthquake which struck Eastern Sichuan on 12 May 2008, Singapore, at China's request, will be deploying an overseas rescue contingent to Chengdu to assist the local authorities in their search and rescue efforts. The 55-member Disaster Assistance & Rescue Team (DART) contingent will be led by LTC Francis Ng How Juah, Commander of the 4th Civil Defence Division.  The contingent will leave for Chengdu today.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

SINGAPORE

16 MAY 2008