In a recent court appearance via video link, Vanessa Wang Zi Qi, the individual captured in the viral video attempting to pry open the doors of a moving MRT train, faced a new charge for being a public nuisance, according to a report by TODAY.
This development took place on Friday, Dec 29, with Wang having been offered bail at S$10,000 on Dec 21, which he was unable to secure due to the lack of a suitable bailor.
The Charges
Wang, aged 47, who was identified as a male in the charge sheets, now faces additional legal troubles with the new charge stemming from an incident at Yio Chu Kang station on Dec 1, 2023. This adds to his existing charges of two counts of public nuisance and one count of voluntarily causing hurt. The former charges relate to his attempts to pull open MRT doors at Braddell and Ang Mo Kio stations, while the latter involves an alleged act of violence at Ang Mo Kio MRT station.
Court Appearance and Bail Issues
During the court hearing, the prosecution expressed readiness to proceed with Wang’s case, intending to pursue three charges and consider one. However, the defense, represented by Jared Lee, sought an adjournment until Feb 1 or 2, citing the need for time to take instructions from Wang and make representations. This request was contested by the prosecution, arguing for a shorter time frame, considering the 23 days Wang spent in remand.
What Happens Next?
Wang is scheduled to return to court on Jan 4, 2024, for his pre-trial conference. This indicates a pivotal moment in the legal proceedings, shedding light on the strategies employed by both the prosecution and defense. The outcome of this conference will likely set the tone for the subsequent trial.
Recap
Videos circulating online depict a passenger attempting to pry open the sliding doors of a moving train on the North-South Line. Fellow commuters can be heard yelling at the person to cease the dangerous act. According to an eyewitness, the attempt briefly succeeded in opening one door before the intervention of other commuters prevented further actions.
SMRT president Lam Sheau Kai addressed the incident, noting that SMRT staff were alerted on Nov 29. However, the passenger reportedly turned uncooperative and aggressive when staff entered the train to investigate.
Photographs shared online reveal the aftermath of the incident, with the passenger lying in a foetal position on the platform of Ang Mo Kio station, surrounded by TransCom officers and station staff.