Man arrested in Potong Pasir flat after cache of weapons uncovered
A 39-year-old man has been taken into custody following a police operation at a residential unit in Potong Pasir, where a wide range of weapons and potentially dangerous items were discovered. The arrest came after officers responded to reports of projectiles being discharged from a flat along Potong Pasir Avenue 1.
According to the Singapore Police Force, the incident was flagged on the morning of April 6 at around 10am. Officers from the Ang Mo Kio Police Division were deployed to the scene, where they located and apprehended the suspect inside his home.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the man had allegedly fired projectiles from within the unit, prompting concerns over public safety in the surrounding residential area. Authorities acted swiftly to secure the premises and prevent further risk to nearby residents.
Large arsenal including 3D-printed weapons seized
During a search of the unit, officers uncovered a substantial collection of weapons and weapon-like items, raising serious concerns about illegal possession and potential misuse. Among the items seized were two pre-charged pneumatic rifles, multiple BB guns, and gel blasters.
In addition, police found a significant number of traditional and improvised weapons, including bows and arrows, slingshots, and several knives. Notably, three crossbows believed to have been produced using 3D printing technology were also recovered, along with dozens of arrows and projectiles.
Authorities also seized a stun device and an extendable baton, both of which fall under controlled or prohibited categories in Singapore. The presence of such items highlights the strict regulatory environment surrounding weapons ownership in the country, where unauthorised possession can lead to severe legal consequences.
3D printer and materials point to possible weapon fabrication
Further investigation within the flat revealed a 3D printer along with 17 rolls of printing filament, suggesting that some of the weapons or their components may have been manufactured on-site. This raises additional concerns about the accessibility of technology that can be used to produce controlled items outside legal channels.
The use of 3D printing in weapon fabrication has become an emerging issue globally, prompting stricter enforcement and monitoring in jurisdictions like Singapore. The authorities have reiterated their zero-tolerance stance towards such activities, especially when they pose a threat to public safety.
The man is expected to be charged in court under the Corrosive and Explosive Substances and Offensive Weapons Act. He may also face further charges under the Guns, Explosives and Weapons Control Act and the Penal Code, depending on the outcome of ongoing investigations.
Police emphasised that any acts involving weapons, whether traditional or technologically produced, will be dealt with firmly. The case serves as a reminder of Singapore’s strict laws on weapon possession, aimed at maintaining safety and order in residential communities.