In an unusual and concerning series of events, an elderly man at a hawker centre in Block 20, Marsiling Lane, has been creating disturbances by allegedly demanding money from diners and resorting to aggressive behavior when refused, according to Shin Min Daily News.
Reports suggest that he not only asks for money but also engages in verbal altercations, arguing with diners and, in some instances, physically assaulting them with trays.
Persistent Agitation at Marsiling Lane Hawker Centre
According to witnesses and diners interviewed by Shin Min Daily News, the elderly man, often referred to as “uncle,” is a regular presence at the hawker centre. Diners recount instances where he approaches them, requesting around $2 for food. When declined, he reportedly reacts by swearing at them, initiating arguments, and, in some cases, resorting to physical altercations involving trays.
A 65-year-old diner, Mr. Xu, shared his experience, stating that the uncle has approached him multiple times, asking for money. When Mr. Xu refused and criticized the elderly man for not being self-reliant, it led to a heated argument. This behavior seems to be a recurring pattern, causing discomfort among those frequenting the hawker centre.
Witness Accounts of Unsettling Incidents
Hawker staff and vendors at the Marsiling Lane hawker centre have acknowledged the presence of the uncle and recounted witnessing his confrontations with diners. According to a diner named Tang, the uncle resorts to verbal abuse if money is not given, and many patrons have faced his wrath at least once. Tang recalled an incident where the uncle engaged in a heated argument with another diner, resulting in both parties flinging trays at each other.
In response to the escalating disturbances, some diners have chosen to keep their distance from the elderly man, fearing potential altercations.
Limited Resolution Options
Despite the disruption caused by the uncle, the Federation of Merchants’ Associations, Singapore in Marsiling expressed their inability to address the issue comprehensively. The representative acknowledged that while the elderly man’s behavior is annoying and disruptive, he has not technically violated any laws that would warrant intervention. As a result, there seems to be limited recourse for the hawker centre management in dealing with this disruptive behavior.
Police Involvement and Lack of Action
Reports indicate that the police have been called to the hawker centre on previous occasions due to the disruptive conduct of the elderly man. However, no legal action was taken, leaving both the hawker centre management and patrons frustrated with the lack of resolution.
The recurring disturbances at the Marsiling Lane hawker centre underscore the challenges faced by local authorities in addressing disruptive behavior that falls within legal gray areas. As diners continue to grapple with the unsettling encounters, there is a growing call for a more comprehensive approach to managing such incidents within public spaces.