A years-long neighbour dispute in Singapore escalated dramatically after a 62-year-old woman repeatedly splashed bleach outside her neighbour’s flat and later sprayed insecticide at the neighbour and her young daughter over disagreements involving bicycle parking.
According to court proceedings reported by local media, the incident centred around Ng Seoh Hui, who eventually pleaded guilty to multiple charges linked to harassment, rash conduct involving harmful substances, and causing hurt.
The case has since sparked discussions online about neighbour disputes in HDB estates, mental health issues, and how prolonged conflicts can spiral dangerously out of control.
According to Shin Min, Ng was sentenced to 14 weeks and 19 days in jail. She was also ordered to compensate the victim S$342 for medical expenses after the family suffered mild insecticide exposure.
Dispute Started Over Bicycles And Corridor Space
Court documents revealed that tensions between the two neighbours began back in May 2022 after the victim purchased two bicycles and parked them near the lift lobby area. The victim also placed plants outside the flat, similar to other residents within the estate.
Complaints were reportedly made to the town council regarding the corridor items.
Soon after, the victim discovered bleach had been poured onto her plants. Suspicions and confrontations between both households followed, with the dispute continuing for years.
The conflict worsened over time, with allegations that Ng swore at the neighbour and even poured unknown liquids onto the victim’s door camera.
In July 2025, another disagreement reportedly broke out after a bicycle was placed outside the unit. According to reports, Ng allegedly poured curry near a rubbish chute area, which later caused an ant infestation around the neighbour’s flat.
The bicycle was eventually moved back to the lift lobby, where other residents also parked theirs. However, Ng allegedly complained again to the town council and demanded that the bicycle be removed.
Bleach Splashing And Police Confrontation
The situation escalated further on Jul. 17, 2025, when the victim reportedly smelled bleach from inside her flat and discovered the corridor floor soaked with the substance.
CCTV footage later allegedly showed Ng pouring bleach outside the unit on multiple occasions over several days.
The victim eventually lodged a police report on Aug. 1, 2025.
When officers questioned Ng, she allegedly admitted to her actions and reportedly told police she decided to “take matters into her own hands” because she believed authorities had not resolved the issue.
She also allegedly stated she would continue splashing bleach until the bicycles were removed.
During the arrest, Ng reportedly kicked one police officer twice and shouted insults including “all police are idiots”.
Insecticide Spraying Incident Shocked Neighbours
Despite being out on bail, the dispute allegedly continued into 2026.
On Feb. 24, 2026, Ng allegedly sprayed insecticide directly at the victim and her nine-year-old daughter while they were returning home.
Two days later, another similar incident reportedly occurred. Court documents stated that Ng continued spraying insecticide even after being confronted by the victim.
The confrontation escalated further when the victim threw her daughter’s file at Ng during the heated exchange.
When the victim’s husband later attempted to retrieve the scattered notes, Ng allegedly emerged carrying two cans of insecticide, prompting another police call.
An ambulance was subsequently activated, and both the victim and her daughter were diagnosed with mild insecticide exposure.
Ng was arrested again on Mar. 1, 2026.
Judge Says Residents Cannot “Take Matters Into Their Own Hands”
During sentencing, the prosecution acknowledged that Ng suffered from major depressive disorder. Her defence lawyer also argued that she had shown remorse and cooperated by pleading guilty early.
However, the district judge stressed that Ng continued offending despite already being out on bail, causing fear and distress to the neighbour’s family, including a young child.
The judge emphasised that while disputes between neighbours can happen, there are proper channels available for conflict resolution.
He added that “taking matters into your hands is not one of such solutions.”
The case has since reignited conversations in Singapore about corridor disputes, HDB neighbour tensions, and how prolonged grievances can quickly escalate into criminal behaviour when left unresolved.
Photos via Shin Min Daily News