Man Arrested for Assaulting Police Officers in Clementi
On December 16, 2024, a 33-year-old man was apprehended in Clementi after allegedly attacking two police officers during an arrest related to drug possession. The incident occurred around 12:50 PM when officers conducting anti-crime patrols noticed the suspect near Clementi Avenue 3 and initiated a routine check.
Upon inspection, the man was found in possession of suspected controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, a pair of thread scissors, and a mobile phone that reportedly did not belong to him. According to the police, the suspect became uncooperative and aggressive when approached.
During the arrest, he allegedly assaulted the officers by punching and kicking them. Additionally, after being restrained, he reportedly spat at one of the officers. As a result of the altercation, a 23-year-old officer sustained injuries to his face and chest, while a 24-year-old officer suffered injuries to his head, chest, and forearm. Both officers were later discharged from medical care with three days of medical leave.
The man is set to face multiple charges in court, including two counts of voluntarily causing hurt to deter public servants from performing their duties, and one count of using criminal force against a public servant. If convicted of the first charge, he could face a maximum sentence of seven years in prison, along with a fine or caning. The second charge carries a potential penalty of up to four years in prison, a fine, or both.
In addition to the assault charges, the suspect is under investigation for possessing an offensive weapon and for fraudulent possession of property. The penalties for possessing an offensive weapon can include up to three years in prison and a minimum of six strokes of caning. For fraudulent possession, he could face up to one year in jail, a fine of up to S$3,000, or both.
The Central Narcotics Bureau is continuing its investigation into the suspected drug-related offenses associated with this case. The police have reiterated their commitment to maintaining public safety and ensuring that those who assault law enforcement officers are held accountable for their actions.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in Singapore, particularly in dealing with drug-related crimes and the potential for violence during arrests. The police have urged the public to cooperate with officers during checks and to report any suspicious activities to help maintain community safety.