A 56-year-old man has been arrested after he allegedly used a catapult to fire marbles at a flock of birds in Woodlands, with one of the projectiles believed to have struck and damaged the bedroom window of a nearby residential unit.
The incident took place along Woodlands Ring Road and led to a police investigation after a resident reported property damage.
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) said the man was arrested on Aug. 1 following extensive investigations.
Marble Believed to Have Struck Bedroom Window
Police were first alerted on Jul. 28 after a bedroom window at Block 664 Woodlands Ring Road was found damaged.
Initial investigations indicated that the damage had likely been caused by a projectile.
Officers from Woodlands Police Division carried out ground enquiries in the area and eventually identified the suspect.
When the man was arrested, officers seized a catapult together with an assortment of marbles and pebbles believed to have been used in the incident.
Investigations later revealed that the suspect had allegedly been aiming at a flock of birds when one of the marbles travelled off course and hit the residential window.
Man To Be Charged In Court
The 56-year-old is expected to be charged in court on Aug. 3 with committing a rash act.
If convicted, he could face:
- Up to six months’ jail
- A fine of up to S$2,500
- Or both
The police stressed that reckless acts capable of endangering members of the public or damaging property will be dealt with seriously.
In a statement, SPF said it “takes a serious view of these dangerous acts” and will continue to take firm action against those whose behaviour puts others at risk.
Although the man was allegedly targeting birds, investigators believe one of the marbles instead struck the bedroom window of a nearby home, causing damage and prompting the police investigation.
Authorities have reminded the public to refrain from engaging in dangerous acts that may cause injury or property damage, even if they are not directed at people.