The tranquility of a preschool setting was shattered when a 59-year-old cook faced accusations of molesting a two-year-old girl. This unsettling incident, unfolding in court on December 27, has sent shockwaves through the community, revealing disturbing details about the accused and raising concerns about the safety of preschool environments.
According to Channel NewsAsia, it was revealed in court yesterday (27 December) that there might be more alleged victims in the case.
IThe Accused and the Initial Charges
The 59-year-old man, a Malaysian and Singapore permanent resident, found himself in legal turmoil after being charged on December 6. The charges stemmed from an incident on November 9, where he allegedly molested a two-year-old girl in her diaper within the confines of the preschool.
Due to a gag order safeguarding the victim’s identity, the accused cannot be named. The court, recognizing the sensitivity of the case, has taken measures to prevent any information that could lead to the identification of the victim from being published.
Expanding Investigations and Alleged Victims
The accused’s family from Malaysia has engaged the services of Mr. Revi Shanker to represent him. The lawyer provided updates during a court appearance on December 27, revealing that the accused had been remanded at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) for a medical examination since December 13.
The IMH report unveiled a concerning diagnosis—the accused suffers from paedophilic disorder. The police prosecutor informed the court that additional charges were imminent, and the accused would be facing allegations from more victims.
Citing the paramount importance of public safety, the police prosecutor requested that no bail be granted to the accused. Highlighting that the accused worked as a cook at the preschool and the victims were all minors, the prosecutor emphasized the potential risk.
Legal Proceedings and Defence
The accused’s family enlisted the services of Mr. Revi Shanker, who argued against the denial of bail. He asserted that the IMH report did not indicate a risk of reoffending or concerns regarding public safety, especially concerning young victims.
The police prosecutor sought an extension of the gag order to include the location of the incident, a request granted by the judge to protect the privacy and well-being of all involved parties.
District Judge Brenda Tan, taking into account the IMH report’s findings about the accused’s paedophilic disorder, made the decision not to grant bail. The case has been adjourned to January for further legal proceedings.
Preschool and Regulatory Response
The Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) initiated investigations into the case. ECDA, in collaboration with the police, is working to uncover the full extent of the allegations and ensure justice.
In response to the allegations, the accused has been dismissed by the preschool. ECDA has taken proactive measures, preventing him from working in the preschool sector during the ongoing investigations.
ECDA emphasized its commitment to the safety of children in preschools, stating that background checks are conducted on all staff, including non-teaching personnel, before