Funerals are typically solemn occasions, offering solace to grieving friends and family. However, an extraordinary event in Jurong East deviated from this norm when a confrontation unfolded around the deceased’s coffin, turning a sorrowful gathering into a chaotic scene.
Fracas broke out
The focal point of the disturbance was a flower garland thrown onto the coffin, setting off a dramatic struggle. The altercation involved two conflicting groups – the family of the departed and a posse led by her boyfriend.
A video shared on Facebook by STOMP captures the intensity of the clash. A group approaches the coffin from behind, carrying a blue garland, only to have it swiftly removed by others. What follows is a melee of pushing, shoving, and shouting, with the coffin perilously tilting at one point.
The dispute, as reported by the deceased’s uncle to Shin Min Daily News, stemmed from the family’s reluctance to let the boyfriend, allegedly responsible for the niece’s death, bid her farewell.
To escalate matters further, the family called the police, who were ready at Mandai Crematorium. The incident unfolded on 19th Nov at Block 247 Jurong East Street 24, according to STOMP. The deceased’s father, in a police report, claimed the boyfriend and his entourage tried to disrupt the procession, leading to chaos and falls.
Conflicting Narratives: Sorting Fact from Fiction
While the police confirmed a report had been filed, a witness presented a different version. According to them, it was the deceased’s family who instigated the scuffle, pulling at the coffin to remove the flowers and tossing them on the ground. This conflicting testimony adds a layer of complexity to an already perplexing situation.