A 59-year-old man who dressed as martial arts icon Bruce Lee and wielded nunchucks in public areas of Geylang has been sentenced to six months and two weeks’ imprisonment, along with a fine of S$2,000, for illegally possessing offensive weapons. The incident, which took place in 2025, drew widespread attention after videos of the man circulated online, prompting police action.
The man, identified in court as Li Hongwei, claimed to be a martial arts instructor and stage manager from China. He was filmed wearing a bright yellow tracksuit resembling the outfit famously worn by Bruce Lee, while standing atop street bollards and swinging a pair of nunchucks. Onlookers could be heard laughing and cheering, with one person referring to him as “Singapore’s Bruce Lee” in Mandarin.
Although the scene appeared theatrical to some passers-by, authorities treated the matter seriously due to the presence of weapons in a public space. The video was posted on social media in October 2025 and quickly gained traction, leading to concerns over public safety and compliance with Singapore’s strict weapons laws.
Police investigation uncovers multiple prohibited weapons
Following the viral footage, officers from the Singapore Police Force conducted patrols in the Geylang area to locate the man. He was eventually found at Geylang Lorong 18 several days later. When officers searched him, they discovered not only nunchucks, but also a five-speared kunai and a pair of knuckledusters in his possession.
Li was arrested and subsequently charged under the Firearms, Explosives and Weapons Control Act, as well as for possessing an offensive weapon. Prosecutors highlighted that while nunchucks are commonly associated with martial arts training and performance, they are still classified as controlled weapons under Singapore law and require proper licensing.
The additional items found raised further concerns. The prosecution argued that the kunai and knuckledusters could be used to cause actual physical harm or instil fear in others, especially if carried in public areas. As such, the case went beyond a simple misunderstanding over martial arts equipment.
Court rejects defence of ignorance of local laws
During court proceedings, Li told the court that he was unfamiliar with Singapore’s laws and claimed the weapons were used solely for teaching and performance purposes. However, the court accepted the prosecution’s position that ignorance of the law was not a valid defence, particularly given Singapore’s long-standing zero-tolerance approach towards weapons-related offences.
Li eventually pleaded guilty to one of the charges. The court imposed a jail sentence of six months and two weeks, along with a S$2,000 fine, reflecting the seriousness of carrying multiple prohibited weapons in a public setting.
The case serves as a reminder that Singapore enforces some of the strictest public safety and weapons control regulations in the region. Items that may be considered sporting or cultural equipment elsewhere can still fall under illegal weapon possession locally. Legal experts note that such offences can have serious consequences, including imprisonment, fines and long-term implications for employment, travel insurance and residency status.
For residents and visitors alike, the incident underscores the importance of understanding local laws, particularly in areas related to public order and safety. What may appear to be harmless performance or personal expression can quickly cross legal boundaries in a tightly regulated urban environment like Singapore.