Four people were taken to hospital after being stung by hornets near Redhill Market, with one elderly woman reportedly suffering multiple stings that left her ears swollen and bleeding.
According to Shin Min Daily News, The incident occurred on the afternoon of Jul. 10 along Redhill Lane, where a large hornet nest was later discovered in a tree near a busy pedestrian walkway.
Emergency services responded after several members of the public were attacked by the insects.
Elderly Woman Among Those Injured
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) confirmed it received a call for assistance at around 1:30pm and subsequently attended to the incident.
According to reports, two men and two women were stung after hornets emerged from a large nest located in a nearby tree.
Witnesses said one elderly woman in her 70s suffered multiple stings to her ears and hands.
A market stallholder recalled seeing the woman rush into a nearby toilet after the attack.
The stallholder said the victim appeared distressed and was repeatedly checking her hair while standing over a sink.
Victim Reportedly Complained Of Dizziness
Witnesses claimed numerous hornets were still surrounding the woman when she sought shelter inside the toilet.
Some insects were allegedly found tangled in her hair as she attempted to remove them.
The woman reportedly complained of headaches and dizziness after the attack.
Observers said her ears appeared red, swollen and bleeding, while sting marks could also be seen on her hands.
As her condition worsened, several members of the public stepped in to assist.
A nearby stall owner reportedly brought over a wheeled chair, allowing passers-by to help move the woman safely out of the toilet while awaiting medical assistance.
Hornet Nest Removed After Area Cordoned Off
The Tanjong Pagar Town Council said it received reports of a hornet nest at around 1pm along the pavement between Block 78 Redhill Lane and a nearby petrol station.
The affected area was immediately cordoned off to protect pedestrians.
A pest control contractor was subsequently deployed to remove the nest.
Authorities later confirmed the nest had been safely removed and the area reopened to the public.
What To Do If You Encounter Hornets
The town council has reminded residents not to approach, disturb or attempt to remove hornet nests on their own.
Members of the public who encounter aggressive hornets should move away immediately and seek shelter indoors.
According to the National Parks Board (NParks), anyone who comes across a bee or hornet nest should keep a safe distance and avoid provoking the insects.
If attacked by a swarm, NParks advises people to cover their heads and run towards shelter instead of swatting at the insects, as this may make them more aggressive.
Anyone experiencing severe reactions after being stung should seek immediate medical attention or call 995 for emergency assistance.
Image Source: Shin Min Daily News & Unsplash