In a tragic turn of events, the case involving Quek Eng Hock, a 65-year-old man charged with murdering his neighbor in a Bukit Batok flat, has taken another somber twist. On February 9, Quek was further remanded for four weeks, extending his time in custody, The Straits Times reported. This extension was requested by the prosecutor to facilitate a psychological assessment, shedding light on the complexity of the legal proceedings surrounding this harrowing incident.
Background of the Case
The initial charges against Quek stemmed from a distressing event that unfolded in a residential area of Bukit Batok. On January 6, Quek allegedly committed the heinous act, resulting in the tragic loss of his 43-year-old neighbor’s life. The victim, whose identity remains protected by a court order, was found deceased in her flat at Block 460B Bukit Batok West Avenue 9. Tragically, her five-year-old son was also injured during the incident and promptly hospitalized.
Reason for Further Remand
The decision to extend Quek’s remand was prompted by concerns over his health condition. The prosecutor highlighted that Quek had been unwell, which delayed the scheduling of his psychological assessment until recently. While details surrounding his illness were not explicitly disclosed, the necessity of a thorough evaluation before proceeding with legal proceedings underscored the gravity of the situation.
Legal Proceedings
Quek, appearing in court via video-link, expressed concern about the presence of his younger brother and sister. Despite their names being called out, no family members came forward. The case was subsequently adjourned to March 8, allowing for the completion of the psychological assessment and further deliberation on the next steps in the legal process.
Details of the Alleged Crime
The events of January 6 sent shockwaves through the Bukit Batok community, prompting swift action from law enforcement. Upon receiving a distress call in the morning, authorities arrived at the scene to find the victim deceased and her son injured. Quek was apprehended at the location, and subsequent investigation led to the seizure of crucial evidence, including a knife believed to have been used in the incident.
Police Response and Investigation
The thoroughness of the police response was evident in the meticulous examination of the crime scene, including a search of the block’s bin center. Such diligence is crucial in gathering evidence to support the legal proceedings and ensure a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime.