THREE MOTORISTS TO BE CHARGED WITH HIT AND RUN OFFENCES

Three motorists, aged between 29 and 71 years, will be charged in court on 13 December 2023 for hit and run offences. 

The incidents took place between March and August 2023. Each of the motorists will be facing multiple charges related to hit and run offences.

The details of the cases are as follows:

1. On 3 August 2023, a 29-year-old man was driving his car along Tampines Expressway when he collided into the rear of another car. The impact caused the other car to collide into the centre divider.  As a result, the driver of the other car sustained injuries and was conveyed to the hospital by ambulance. The man did not stop to render assistance to the injured driver, neither did he report the accident to the Police within 24 hours. He will be charged for driving without due care and attention causing hurt under Section 65(1)(a) and punishable under Section 65(4)(a) of the Road Traffic Act 1961, failing to stop after an accident under Section 84(1) of the Road Traffic Act 1961, failing to report an accident within 24 hours under Section 84(2) of the Road Traffic Act 1961 and failing to render assistance to the injured under Section 84(3) of the Road Traffic Act 1961.
   
2. On 29 July 2023, a 30-year-old man was driving his car at the carpark of Block 136 Bukit Batok West Avenue 6 when he collided into a stationary car and three stationary motorcycles. The man failed to remain at the scene after the collision and failed to report the accident to the Police within 24 hours. He will be charged for driving without due care and attention under Section 65(1)(a) and punishable under Section 65(5)(a) of the Road Traffic Act 1961, failing to stop after an accident under Section 84(1) of the Road Traffic Act 1961 and failing to report an accident within 24 hours under Section 84(2) of the Road Traffic Act 1961. Refer to Annex A for photographs of this accident.
   
3. On 19 March 2023, a 71-year-old man was driving a heavy vehicle along Corporation Road, when the retractable boom arm from the vehicle collided into the overhead Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) structure. After the impact, the man failed to remain at scene and left without reporting the accident to the Police. The man will be charged for failing to stop after an accident under Section 84(1) of the Road Traffic Act, 1961 and collision of heavy vehicles with structure under Section 65A(1)(a) of the Road Traffic Act, 1961. Refer to Annex B for photographs of this accident. 

The offence of driving without due care or reasonable consideration causing hurt under Sec 65(4) of the Road Traffic Act 1961 carries a fine of up to $2,500, or an imprisonment term of up to 12 months, or both. In the case of a second or subsequent conviction, the offence carries a fine of up to $5,000, or an imprisonment term of up to two years, or both.

The offence of failing to stop after an accident under Section 84(1) of the Road Traffic Act 1961, failing to lodge report within 24 hours after an accident under Section 84(2) of the Road Traffic Act 1961 and failing to render assistance to the injured under Section 84(3) of the Road Traffic Act 1961 each carries a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment for a term of up 3 months or both. In the case of a second or subsequent offence, the offence carries a fine of up $2,000 or an imprisonment term of up to 6 months, or both.

The offence of collision of heavy vehicles with structure under Section 65A(1)(a) of the Road Traffic Act 1961 carries a fine of up to $5,000 or 
imprisonment of up to 2 years or to both. In the case of a second or subsequent conviction, the offence carries a fine up to $10,000 or an imprisonment term of up to 5 years, or both.

Motorists who are involved in accidents should stop and render assistance to the road users involved, such as calling for an ambulance to provide medical attention to the injured. In accidents where state properties are damaged, motorists should make a Police report as soon as possible. It is an offence to leave an accident scene without rendering assistance or making a report within 24 hours. The Traffic Police will not hesitate to take firm action against motorists who choose to flout traffic laws and endanger the safety of other road users.

Annex A

Post accident photos of the car which a 30-year-old man had driven and collided into a stationary car and three stationary motorcycles ▼

Annex B

Damage sustained to the MRT structure after a trailer had collided into it ▼

The vehicle which had collided into the MRT overhead structure along Corporation Road ▼

PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
12 December 2023 @ 8:30 PM

In a recent incident that unfolded at the junction of Loyang Avenue and Pasir Ris Drive 1, a cyclist found themselves in a perilous situation.

The clash between the cyclist and a Mazda car, captured on video by SG Road Vigilante, has stirred discussions about road safety and the consequences of overlooking traffic signals.

The Facebook page SG Road Vigilante shared footage of an alarming collision at Pasir Ris junction, shedding light on the dangers of neglecting traffic signals. The incident, which occurred on Monday at 4.44 pm, highlights the significance of adhering to road safety rules.

The Accident Scene

The collision unfolded at the Loyang Avenue and Pasir Ris Drive 1 junction, turning a routine commute into a moment of chaos. The aftermath left only the cyclist’s abandoned bicycle on the road, revealing the intensity of the impact.

SG Road Vigilante provided a visual account of the incident, capturing the critical seconds when a Mazda, having the green light, collided with a cyclist crossing the pedestrian zone.

Despite the red man signal, the cyclist proceeded to cross the junction, leading to the inevitable collision. Examining the reasons behind the cyclist’s decision provides insights into potential lapses in attention or judgment.

The collision had severe repercussions, with the cyclist sent flying off their bicycle, and the bike itself landing meters away in an awkward position. The intensity of the impact raises questions about the need for heightened awareness on the roads.

Netizens’ comments

1. Just wait for your turn, traffic light is there for a reason, save a few seconds is not worth the risk
2. Soo satisfying to watch… Cyclist always thinks that they own the road and expect car/motorist to give them way.. well deserved 
3. Satisfy to watch…… hope the car is ok. **cyclist well deserve to learn a lesson, not anyhow dash across & expect all car to give way.
4. Law says green light dun mean can close eyes hantam the gas. Still need observe clearance and obstructions.
   Cyclist is wrong but legally that’s another set of law to the cyclist. (Despite they dun need to learn road safety basic theory)
   In fact everyone should learn it. Even pedestrians. So everyone on same page and book. But poor driver need kanna charged fined and insurance can’t claim. As for cyclist. Bad selection of life choice.

In a recent Facebook post dated December 12th, a Singapore to Malaysia bus passenger detailed a harrowing experience involving a negligent bus driver and subsequent mistreatment by Malaysian customs officers.

The Bus Journey: A Chaotic Scene Unfolds

The incident purportedly occurred on December 9 at around 9 AM on a Causeway Link bus heading from Singapore customs to Johor Bahru CIQ.

Due to the weekend and school holidays, the customs checkpoint was unusually crowded, leading to traffic congestion. The bus driver, anticipating delays, decided to open the doors, instructing passengers to disembark and walk a distance to the checkpoint.

Negligence Leads to Near Mishap

As passengers alighted, a critical oversight occurred. The bus driver, without warning or ensuring all passengers had disembarked, abruptly accelerated forward.

This sudden movement endangered those still in the process of exiting, including the complainant’s girlfriend and her sister with a four-month-old baby in tow. Fortunately, quick reactions prevented a severe accident.

Confrontation with the Bus Driver

Appalled by the driver’s negligence, the affected passengers confronted him, urging him to prioritize passenger safety. However, the driver, instead of reflecting on his actions, responded with hostility and verbally abused the passengers.

The complainant, in an attempt to defuse the situation, disembarked and began documenting the encounter, leading to further aggression from the bus driver.

Upon realizing that the complainant was documenting the incident, the bus driver attempted to snatch the phone.

Failing in his attempt, he resorted to physically pushing the complainant. At this point, two customs officers, referred to as Officer A and Officer B, intervened to inquire about the commotion.

Shocking Response from Customs Officers

To the complainant’s dismay, Officer A, without considering the circumstances, immediately asked about the passenger’s nationality.

When informed that the complainant was Malaysian, Officer A proceeded to demand the deletion of the recorded video, threatening passport-related consequences if the request was not met.

Disillusionment with Malaysian Officials

The complainant reluctantly complied with Officer A’s demand, feeling disillusioned by the apparent lack of impartiality and protection for citizens.

The incident left lingering questions about the conduct of both the bus driver and the customs officers, raising concerns about the protection of basic rights and the prevalence of corruption.

Source: Facebook

In a shocking turn of events, an Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) inspector, Kannan Morice Rajagopal Jayaram, finds himself entangled in a web of corruption charges, according to The Straits Times.

The Charges Unveiled

The Prevention of Corruption Act casts a dark shadow over Kannan as he faced six charges on 14 December related to obtaining “corrupt gratifications” between 2022 and February 2023. Unveiling the specifics, charge sheets indicate that these gratifications took the form of sex acts involving six male individuals.

The Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau reveals that these acts were allegedly used as inducements to facilitate short-term visit pass applications with the ICA. This revelation has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about the integrity of the immigration process.

Responding promptly to the allegations, the ICA has taken a stern stance, interdicting Kannan from service since April 15. The agency underscores its commitment to upholding the highest standards and ensuring errant officers face due process.

Legal Ramifications

The gravity of corruption charges cannot be understated. Anyone convicted faces imprisonment of up to five years, a fine of up to S$100,000 (US$74,400), or both. The legal ramifications loom large for Kannan, adding complexity to an already intricate case.

As the legal drama unfolds, District Judge Brenda Tan oversees the proceedings, emphasizing the prosecution’s readiness for a guilty plea. However, Kannan’s defence seeks a four-week adjournment, setting the stage for a legal tug-of-war.

Defence lawyer Tan Wei Chieh seeks a six-week adjournment to gather instructions from Kannan. The court, however, allows a four-week extension, signaling a potential challenge for the defence to strategize effectively.

Past Awards

Kannan, once a recipient of The Long Service Medal in the 2019 National Day Awards, now faces public scrutiny. The irony of a decorated officer entangled in corruption allegations raises questions about the efficacy of recognition systems.

Adding to the irony, Kannan received the COVID-19 Resilience Medal in the same year. The alleged misconduct tarnishes not only his personal reputation but also questions the criteria for such accolades.

The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and the Singapore Police Force have jointly announced the arrest and impending charges for a 38-year-old Singaporean male driver involved in a rash act at Woodlands Checkpoint on 12 December 2023.

According to the official statement released, the driver will face charges of causing hurt by a rash act, and he is scheduled to appear in court on 14 December 2023.

What happened?

Preliminary investigations indicate that the Singaporean male driver was attempting to depart Singapore via Woodlands Checkpoint when the incident occurred. During a routine fuel gauge check at the departure car zone, an ICA officer observed that the fuel level in the driver’s vehicle was below the stipulated level.

Upon instructing the driver to hand over his passport and follow him to the ICA Duty Office, the driver refused to comply. Instead, he accelerated forward, dragging the ICA officer for several meters. The reckless maneuver nearly resulted in a collision with a pedestrian and other stationary vehicles in close proximity.

As a result of the incident, the ICA officer sustained bodily injuries and was promptly conveyed to the hospital, remaining conscious throughout the process.

ICA emphasized the importance of safe driving at checkpoints, highlighting that officers are diligently performing their duties to safeguard Singapore’s borders. The authorities have pledged to take strict enforcement action against any blatant breach of traffic rules and safety protocols.

ICA’s statement

38-Year-Old Singaporean Male Driver Arrested and Charged for Rash Act at Woodlands Checkpoint

            The Police have arrested a 38-year-old Singaporean male for causing hurt by a rash act following an incident at Woodlands Checkpoint on 12 December 2023. He will be charged in court on 14 December 2023.

2.          Preliminary investigations revealed that the Singaporean male driver intended to depart Singapore by car via Woodlands Checkpoint. He underwent a fuel gauge check at the departure car zone and an Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officer noticed that the amount of fuel was below the stipulated level. The officer instructed the driver to hand over his passport, park the car, and follow him to the ICA Duty Office. The driver refused to comply and accelerated forward, dragging the officer for several metres. The car nearly collided with a pedestrian and other nearby stationary vehicles.

3.          As a result of the incident, the ICA officer suffered bodily pain and was subsequently conveyed conscious to the hospital.

4.          ICA officers stationed at the checkpoints carry out their duties to safeguard Singapore’s borders. Motorists using the checkpoints need to drive safely and abide by traffic rules not just for their own safety but also the safety of our officers. The authorities will take strict enforcement action against blatant breach of such rules.

5          Departing travellers driving Singapore-registered cars are reminded to observe the “three-quarter tank” rule. Offenders may be issued with a composition sum of up to $500 or prosecuted in court. They will be turned back at the checkpoints and not allowed to proceed with their journey into Malaysia.

6.          The driver will be charged in court on 14 December 2023 with the offence of causing hurt by a rash act which endangers the life or personal safety of others under Section 337(a) of the Penal Code 1871. The offence carries an imprisonment term which may extend to one year, a fine which may extend to $5,000, or both.

SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
IMMIGRATION & CHECKPOINTS AUTHORITY
14 DECEMBER 2023

Former Singapore President Halicam Yacob has taken to Facebook to express deep concern and question the global response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Yacob’s post reflects a plea for humanity and raises critical questions about the world’s apparent indifference to the suffering of Palestinians amidst the Gaza War.

A Cry for Humanity in the Face of Tragedy

In his Facebook post, Yacob wonders why it is challenging for the world to stand on the side of humanity, especially in the context of the Gaza conflict.

She highlights the staggering toll of 17,000 Palestinians killed in just two months, with a majority being women and children. Yacob expresses dismay at the global immobilization in the face of such devastating human loss.

The post vividly describes the dire conditions faced by the Palestinian population, with images of babies being killed, children mourning their deceased parents, and two million people fleeing for their lives without a safe haven.

Yacob draws attention to the inadequacy of the proposed safe zone, likening it to London’s Heathrow airport in size but lacking essential infrastructure and basic amenities for survival.

Halimah Yacob’s Facebook post

Why is it so difficult to stand on the side of humanity? We invoked humanity, when it is convenient, for so many other causes, yet when 17,000 Palestinians are being killed, in just two months, the majority of them women and children, the world is immobilised.

Are our hearts so hardened that we chose not to be moved by pictures of babies being killed, children crying for their dead parents and two million people fleeing for their lives with nowhere safe to go? A safe zone? So small that it’s no bigger than London’s Heathrow airport with no infrastructure, water, electricity and other basic amenities for survival which even the UN and International Red Cross have described as unliveable.

And even the meagre lorry loads of aid are blocked, killing Palestinians through starvation, disease and untreated injuries if they’ve escaped the bombs.

After this is over, whatever the outcome, what lessons will we learn about a world so indifferent to the pain and suffering of a people? Is the value that we attach to humanity dependent on who they are? If this is one takeaway, then we are living in a very dangerous world where principles and values, the biggest victims in the Gaza War, will count for nothing in the future.

Why do we have international laws then if they can be broken with impunity despite pious protestations globally?

What is the significance of this in conflicts in other parts of the world? What’s the role of the UN which has been severely undermined in this war? Surely humanitarian international laws which prohibit collective punishment of innocent civilians, which the UN said was repeatedly violated by Israel in its exercise of the right to self defence, must count for something.

If it counts for nothing, then be very fearful of the rule of the mighty over the weak. Of chaos and disorder particularly dangerous for vulnerable small states.

Stand on the side of humanity. Humans never learn. We are doomed to repeat the same mistakes. Security is not achieved through the barrels of a gun.

Humans have memories. We share experiences through telling stories to our young. A truly traumatised young will remember these moments when their families are killed, homes destroyed and all hopes erased. Security is a long term commitment and requires sincere effort. It cannot be achieved overnight.

Stand on the side of humanity. What stories will we tell our young even though we are living in peace now? How do we explain what’s happening when they see so much death and destruction and they wonder why? Do we tell them that humanity failed?

A Grab passenger recently took to social media to express frustration after leaving their wallet in a Grab vehicle and facing difficulties in retrieving it. The incident has raised concerns about the responsiveness of Grab’s support system and the challenges passengers may encounter in such situations.

Lost Wallet and Unresponsive Driver

The passenger reported leaving their wallet in a Grab vehicle, initiating contact with the driver within minutes of disembarking. Unfortunately, the driver did not answer the call, and subsequent attempts to reach the driver proved futile. The Grab app indicated that the driver had been offline for the past 60 hours, adding an extra layer of difficulty to the situation.

Desperate to retrieve their wallet containing both work-related and sentimental items, the passenger reached out to Grab support via email multiple times. However, the responses from Grab support conveyed their inability to establish contact with the driver, leaving the passenger in a state of distress.

Plea for Help and Escalation

In a social media post, the passenger expressed frustration with the lack of assistance from Grab support, emphasizing the importance of the wallet’s contents.

The passenger highlighted that Grab support marked the issue as resolved, but in reality, no tangible progress had been made.

The passenger’s post concluded with an appeal for the issue to be brought to Grab’s attention, seeking a prompt and effective resolution to retrieve the lost wallet.

What the netizen said

Basically what happen is, I left my wallet inside a grab, it has been about 62 hours now, the grab driver did not pick up, I have emailed grab multiple times and they said they couldn’t contact the driver.

He’s on offline mode in grab for the last 60 hours. I called him about 2 mins after I left the grab but he didn’t pick up as well, I have very important contents inside my wallet which has work and sentimental values to me. Grab support is not helpful, and all they can reply is they cannot contact him. I hope this post can be escalated up to grab and someone can help me. Thank you

They put the the issue is resolved, but nothing is done, no updates as well.

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