Should it be "was" instead of "were"?

English as a Second Language English Vocabulary, Grammar and Idioms
1

He assured them that the Singapore Police Force (SPF) were on the case.

Should it be “was” instead of “were”?

Thanks.

2 Likes
2

Both versions are possible, with “was” being the most popular. In British English ‘police’ is usually followed by the plural form of the verb (are, were).

1 Like
3

Thanks, Torsten.

But I am talking about “The Singapore Police Force”, not “police” (one word). Does that make a difference?

2 Likes
4

“The Singapore Police Force” is the name of the agency, which is singular. However, individuals from the force were on the case, not the entirety of the force as a whole.

It’s implied that individual members from the Police Force were on the job.

2 Likes
5

Should it be “was” instead of “were”?
I’d go for ‘was’ since it is a specific name.
But the word ‘police’ takes the plural verb (are/were/have)

2 Likes