A slashing incident at Pasir Ris Street 72 took place on December 20 that stunned Singaporeans and took over the headlines, as 4 people ended up with injuries in the horrific attack, including the assailant himself.
The assailant, 61-year-old Loh Chye Hoe, has since been charged in court yesterday (December 21) with the attempted murder of 46-year-old Wong Tai Huong, according to The Straits Times.
The Disturbing Incident
Court documents reveal that Loh Chye Hoe allegedly used a cleaver to slash Mr. Wong Tai Huong multiple times at around 4:50 pm on December 20 within the premises of Pasir Ris West Plaza. The severity of the attack has prompted swift police action and legal proceedings.
The aftermath of the incident saw four individuals, including Loh, injured and rushed to Sengkang General Hospital. Loh, semi-conscious at the time, was later charged on December 21 while still in hospital.
Two individuals connected to the case were transferred to Tan Tock Seng Hospital for specialized treatment, while the remaining two continue to receive treatment at Sengkang General Hospital.
Recovery and Community Support
A spokesperson for Sengkang General Hospital assured the public that the individuals are “recovering well and are in stable condition.”
However, due to patient confidentiality, specific details about their conditions remain undisclosed. The community has rallied together, with Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean visiting the mall to inquire about the well-being of shopkeepers near the scene.
Shop Disputes and Previous Incidents
The incident has shed light on underlying tensions between businesses in the area. Loh Chye Hoe, who runs a mobile phone shop called Esther’s Shop at Loyang Point, has been associated with disputes with another mobile phone shop, Pacific Mobile, and Royal Regent, a provision shop.
Pacific Mobile and Royal Regent share the same owner, and the rivalry between the two establishments had reportedly escalated earlier in 2023.
Previous Altercations and Business Rivalry
An employee at Pacific Mobile disclosed that Mr. Wong, the victim, is the owner of the shop, and conflicts between the two neighboring shops were frequent due to business rivalry. A big argument in July or August 2023 resulted in police intervention. The dispute revolved around items placed outside one shop, blocking the storefront of the rival.
Witnesses reported seeing a man loitering near Royal Regent hours before the attack. The same man purchased a can of beer and peanuts from a nearby provision shop around 4 pm. Shortly after, loud screams were heard, and a woman from Royal Regent was seen with a significant gash on her face, attempting to fend off the assailant with a broom.
Legal Ramifications and Next Court Date
Loh’s next court date is scheduled for January 11, 2024. If convicted of attempted murder, the offender can face severe penalties, including life imprisonment and caning, or up to 20 years in jail, fines, or caning, or a combination of these punishments. It’s worth noting that men above 50, and women, cannot be caned