A 24-year-old serviceman from the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) was conveyed to hospital this morning after an SAF vehicle collided with a van on Upper Changi Road East, heading towards New Upper Changi Road. The incident has prompted an investigation by the Singapore Police Force and raised questions about road safety.
Details of the Incident and Initial Response
The collision occurred at approximately 7:00 AM on June 10th, 2025. A grey van and an SAF five-tonner were involved in the incident, resulting in the SAF vehicle coming to a halt in the middle lane of the road. The driver of the SAF vehicle, a 24-year-old serviceman, sustained injuries and was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention.
Dashcam footage from a passing vehicle captured the aftermath of the collision. The footage, which has been circulating on social media, shows the van positioned in front of the stationary SAF vehicle. An ambulance and a traffic police motorcycle were present at the scene, with traffic police officers and other personnel in reflective gear attending to the situation.
Official Statements and Ongoing Investigation
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) confirmed that they were alerted to the collision and that the SAF vehicle driver was conscious when he was taken to hospital. The SPF has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident and to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) has also issued a statement acknowledging the collision and confirming that the SAF vehicle driver is indeed an SAF serviceman. MINDEF did not disclose whether the serviceman is a full-time national serviceman (NSF) or a regular member of the armed forces. The ministry confirmed that the serviceman received outpatient treatment at Changi General Hospital and has since been discharged.
SAF Cooperation and Road Safety Implications
MINDEF stated that the SAF is fully cooperating with the police in their ongoing investigation. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety, particularly for drivers of large vehicles. Maintaining a safe following distance, adhering to speed limits, and exercising caution are crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of all road users.
Potential Impact on Military Operations and Training
While the extent of the damage to the SAF vehicle is currently unknown, the incident could potentially have implications for military operations and training exercises. The SAF will likely conduct its own internal review to assess the impact of the collision and to identify any measures that can be taken to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. This may include reviewing driver training protocols and reinforcing road safety awareness among SAF personnel.
Legal and Insurance Considerations
Following the collision, both parties involved will likely be considering their legal and insurance options. Determining liability for the accident will be a key factor in determining who is responsible for covering the costs of repairs to the vehicles and any medical expenses incurred as a result of the injuries sustained. Seeking legal advice from a qualified solicitor may be beneficial for both the SAF and the driver of the van.
Image Source: SG Road Vigilante