A 30-year-old man is set to be charged in court after he allegedly assaulted another commuter on a public bus in Sengkang following a dispute involving a cap bearing an Israeli emblem.
According to police, the incident took place on the night of 27 October 2025 while the bus was travelling along Rivervale Drive. The two men involved were strangers and had no prior relationship with each other.
Investigations revealed that the younger man allegedly confronted a 55-year-old commuter who was wearing a cap displaying the Israeli national emblem. During the confrontation, the suspect is said to have snatched the cap from the older man’s head before allegedly assaulting him.
The victim reportedly suffered injuries during the incident and later sought medical treatment.
Police were alerted to the case at about 10.40pm and launched investigations. Through a combination of ground enquiries and footage obtained from police cameras, officers were able to identify the suspect.
The 30-year-old will be charged on 4 June with voluntarily causing hurt under Section 323 of the Penal Code. If convicted, he could face a jail term of up to three years, a fine of up to S$5,000, or both.
Police stressed that acts of violence will not be tolerated and that offenders who resort to physical aggression will be dealt with firmly under Singapore law.
Victim Also Issued Warning
While the assault case has attracted public attention, authorities also took action against the 55-year-old victim.
Police said the man was issued a stern warning in lieu of prosecution for displaying a foreign national emblem in public. Under Singapore’s Foreign National Emblems (Control of Display) Act, displaying the national emblem of another country in public without authorisation is prohibited.
Individuals found guilty of the offence can face a jail term of up to six months, a fine of up to S$500, or both.
The authorities did not disclose whether the man was aware of the restrictions before wearing the cap.
Police Warn Against Importing Overseas Conflicts
In their statement, police reminded members of the public not to bring overseas political or international conflicts into Singapore.
Authorities also advised the public against displaying or wearing articles associated with foreign conflicts in public spaces, adding that individuals should express their views in a lawful and responsible manner.
The case comes amid heightened sensitivities surrounding ongoing international conflicts, with authorities reiterating that public order and racial and religious harmony remain key priorities in Singapore.
Police emphasised that regardless of personal beliefs or political views, violence and disorderly conduct will not be tolerated, and anyone who breaks the law will face the appropriate consequences.