Man Arrested After Penknife Attack at Toa Payoh HDB on National Day
A National Day night out in Toa Payoh took a violent turn when a 49-year-old man was arrested for allegedly slashing a 59-year-old man with a penknife. The two men, who were reportedly drinking together earlier at a nearby coffee shop, ended up at the void deck of Block 168 Lorong 1 Toa Payoh, where the incident unfolded.
Police and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) officers were alerted to the scene at around 8.30pm on 9 August. The older man, who sustained a head wound, was conscious when taken to Tan Tock Seng Hospital. Officers later seized the penknife believed to be used in the attack, Lianhe Zaobao reported.
According to an eyewitness quoted by Lianhe Zaobao, the men had been seated with another couple during the drinking session before leaving together. Shortly afterwards, a woman rushed into the coffee shop toilet to grab tissues, looking visibly alarmed. The witness later saw one man seated on the ground at the void deck, bleeding heavily from his head, as another woman made an urgent call for police and an ambulance.
Suspected Dispute Over Drinks Led to Violence
The eyewitness suggested that the men may have quarrelled over drinks before deciding to “settle it” away from the coffee shop. “There was blood everywhere on the ground. It was terrifying,” the witness said.
Police have classified the case as voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous weapon, a serious offence under Singapore law. Investigations are ongoing to determine the events leading up to the attack.
Residents in the area expressed concern over the incident, noting that the void deck is usually a peaceful spot where neighbours gather. The violence on a day meant for celebration left many unsettled, with some urging for greater awareness of alcohol-related disputes.
This case adds to the growing number of public order incidents reported in recent months, sparking conversations about responsible drinking and conflict management in neighbourhood settings.
Image Source: Lianhe Zaobao