Neighbour disputes are unfortunately not uncommon, but the recent case in Marine Parade has garnered attention due to the escalation of tensions between Yeo Kaw Guek, a 71-year-old woman, and her neighbour, Mr. Goh Tok Liang, according to The Straits Times.
Background of the Dispute
Yeo and Mr. Goh, residing in the same HDB block in Marine Parade for about 40 years, saw their relationship take a sour turn in 2021. The court documents reveal a series of incidents, each adding fuel to the fire of their strained relationship.
On this fateful evening, as Mr. Goh returned to his unit around 9 pm, he discovered joss sticks thrown outside his front door. Confrontation led to a heated argument, culminating in Yeo splashing warm water on Mr. Goh, causing superficial burns on his face, neck, and chest.
In an earlier incident in July 2022, an argument erupted while Mr. Goh was sweeping the corridor. Yeo, in a fit of anger, hit Mr. Goh on his back with a broomstick after exchanging heated words. This incident resulted in a harassment charge against Yeo.
Yeo’s actions extended beyond physical altercations. In January 2022, she poured antiseptic liquid on Mr. Goh’s legs from her window, leading to another charge of using criminal force.
Legal Consequences
The legal repercussions for Yeo were significant. On January 22, 2024, she was fined $3,000 after pleading guilty to two counts of voluntarily causing hurt to Mr. Goh. Two additional charges of using criminal force and contravening the Protection from Harassment Act were considered during sentencing.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Ashley Chin highlighted the escalating provocations between the neighbours, emphasizing the need for a deterrent. Chin recommended a $5,000 fine to prevent Yeo from committing further offenses against Mr. Goh.
Adding to the complexity, Yeo and Mr. Goh are embroiled in a separate court harassment case, scheduled for a tribunal hearing on Jan 26, with Yeo as the claimant.