Elderly Man, 71, Arrested After Allegedly Refusing To Leave Ground Near Hougang MRT For Over An Hour
A 71-year-old man was arrested for public drunkenness near Hougang MRT station after reportedly refusing to get up from the ground despite repeated attempts by paramedics and police officers to assist him.
The incident took place on the afternoon of 5 June at an HDB estate near Exit B of Hougang MRT station, attracting the attention of residents and passers-by.
According to witnesses who spoke to local Chinese daily Shin Min Daily News, the elderly man appeared heavily intoxicated and had allegedly fallen to the ground, suffering a minor scrape on his elbow.
Concerned for his safety, a member of the public called for medical assistance after noticing the man struggling to stand.
According to Shin Min Daily News, Witnesses said the man attempted to get back on his feet several times but appeared unsteady and unable to maintain his balance. One witness also claimed that the man’s trousers appeared to be wet.
Refused Assistance From Paramedics
When paramedics arrived at the scene, they reportedly assessed the man’s condition and attempted to provide assistance.
However, the elderly man allegedly refused to cooperate and continued lying on the ground despite efforts to persuade him to move.
As the situation dragged on, police officers were called to the scene to help manage the incident.
Witnesses said the standoff lasted for approximately one hour, with several officers attempting to engage the man before further action was taken.
Another passer-by told reporters that she later witnessed police officers escorting the man away from the area.
According to the witness, the elderly man appeared agitated and was heard shouting and cursing while being escorted by officers.
Video Shows Arrest Near MRT Station
A video that later surfaced online showed the man wearing a T-shirt and shorts while being escorted by four police officers.
His hands appeared to be cuffed behind his back as officers guided him towards a nearby location.
At one point during the escort, the man briefly lost his footing but was quickly supported by one of the officers to prevent him from falling.
The incident drew significant attention online, with some netizens expressing concern over the elderly man’s condition, while others highlighted the potential dangers of excessive alcohol consumption in public places.
In response to media queries, the Singapore Police Force confirmed that officers received a call for assistance at Block 90 Hougang Avenue 10 at approximately 4:25pm on 5 June.
Police said a 71-year-old man was subsequently arrested for drunkenness in public and was conveyed conscious to the hospital.
Investigations into the incident are currently ongoing.
Photo from Shin Min Daily News.