 Singh initially helped Fujiwara take control of the situation of looting and arson that had developed in Alor Star; in December 1941, after meeting with the Japanese commanding general, Singh was convinced of the feasibility of raising an armed Indian unit.Between himself, Pritam Singh and Fujiwara, Mohan Singh set about contacting Indians in the British Indian Army in Southeast Asia, and also began recruiting from amongst those captured by the Japanese in Malaya.All Indian prisoners of war and stragglers were placed under his charge and he was asked to restore order in the town of Alor Star.