A 27-year-old man in Singapore has been sentenced to seven months in jail after he deliberately set a fire outside his grandmother’s flat when she refused to let him in. The man, identified as Lenard Tan Yong Jia, lived in the same unit as his grandmother and stepfather but found himself locked out upon returning home on 17 April 2025.
Unable to open the metal gate, Tan made six phone calls to his 67-year-old grandmother, pleading with her to unlock the door. However, she did not respond, as she was reportedly fearful of him due to past disputes and her belief that he was a drug addict, reported CNA.
Driven by anger after being ignored, Tan resorted to a shocking act of revenge. He lit a piece of cardboard with a lighter and wedged it between the metal gate and wooden door, where another cardboard box had already been left. He then filmed the fire and sent the video to his uncle with a chilling voice message in Mandarin: “You want to play with me? I’ll set a fire and let you see.”
Quick Thinking Neighbours Alert Authorities
Fortunately, alert neighbours noticed the fire and raised the alarm. Tan’s grandmother managed to extinguish the flames with water before they spread further inside the flat.
According to Shin Min Daily News, the fire caused approximately S$7,000 in damage, including scorched tiles, a damaged door, burnt skirting, and blistered paint around the entrance. His aunt subsequently lodged a police report.
Tan was arrested the following day, on 18 April, still in possession of the lighter he used and two penknives. He was formally charged on 4 July with one count of mischief by fire, with an additional charge considered during sentencing.
Court Hands Down Seven-Month Jail Sentence
Deputy Public Prosecutor Jotham Tay called for a jail sentence of five to six months, arguing that Tan’s actions had endangered the life and health of his grandmother. The court ultimately handed down a seven-month jail term, taking into account the seriousness of the offence and the potential risk to others.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of resorting to violence in moments of anger, and highlights the serious consequences of arson in Singapore. Residents are urged to seek peaceful resolutions to family disputes and to reach out for professional help when emotions become overwhelming.
For information on managing anger and accessing family support services, members of the public can visit www.familyassist.sg or call the National Care Hotline at 1800-202-6868.
Image Source: Shin Min Daily News