Couple Injured in Yishun Coffee Shop Brawl, Only Girlfriend Arrested
A couple has reported being assaulted by four men during a brawl at a coffee shop in Yishun, with the incident resulting in significant injuries for both parties. The altercation occurred on 22 May at Block 293 Yishun Street 22, and has since raised questions regarding the police’s handling of the situation, particularly as only the girlfriend was arrested.
Incident Details and Allegations
According to Mr Chen, a 46-year-old man, he and his 42-year-old girlfriend, also named Chen, were enjoying drinks with friends when a fight broke out at a nearby table involving four men. Ms Chen, who was familiar with the men, attempted to intervene but was allegedly threatened with violence. Mr Chen claims that one of the men stated, “I beat women too,” before snatching Ms Chen’s phone and throwing it to the ground, damaging it.
The situation escalated when Ms Chen was reportedly punched by one of the men. In response, she retaliated by slapping her assailant. Mr Chen also became involved in the brawl, sustaining injuries in the process. However, the four men fled the scene before the police arrived.
Medical Consequences and Arrest
Following the brawl, both individuals sustained injuries. Mr Chen suffered a broken rib and multiple bruises, while Ms Chen experienced a broken eardrum, which has affected her hearing. Her medical expenses have exceeded S$3,000. Despite being the victims, only Ms Chen was arrested for affray, as she was captured on CCTV footage engaging in the fight.
Mr Chen expressed frustration over the situation, noting that one of the assailants had contacted Ms Chen, offering to settle the matter privately and cover her medical costs. However, she declined to meet him, and the couple opted to file a police report instead.
Conflicting Accounts and Ongoing Investigations
Witnesses at the coffee shop provided conflicting accounts of the events leading up to the brawl. Some claimed that Mr Chen had instigated the fight by throwing a beer glass, a claim he vehemently denies, asserting that he was quietly enjoying his drinks and did not provoke anyone.
The Singapore Police Force confirmed that they received a call for assistance around 10.40 pm on the night of the incident. A 46-year-old man was taken to the hospital, while a 42-year-old woman was arrested. Investigations are currently ongoing, as authorities seek to clarify the circumstances surrounding the brawl and the subsequent arrest.
As the situation unfolds, it highlights the complexities of public altercations and the challenges faced by law enforcement in determining culpability in such incidents. The couple’s experience serves as a reminder of the potential dangers present in public spaces and the importance of seeking help when faced with violence.
All Images From: Shin Min Daily News