A heated dispute between food delivery riders in Tampines has drawn police attention after a shouting match escalated into insults and mutual filming. The clash reportedly began with what was meant to be a warning for safety but quickly turned into a quarrel between three riders.
According to 35-year-old Ms Hu who told Shin Min Daily News, She works as a delivery rider, the incident occurred on 7 August at about 9.15pm near the park connector close to Tampines MRT station. She explained that while riding her personal mobility aid back towards Tampines One mall, she noticed a child about to cross. Concerned the child could be hit, she raised her voice to alert the mother.
Her warning, however, was misunderstood by two other delivery riders nearby, who thought she was shouting at them for riding too fast. “I was only worried about the child’s safety, but they assumed I was scolding them. Next thing I knew, they started hurling vulgarities and filming me,” she told reporters.
Delivery Riders Exchange Accusations
In a video Ms Hu recorded, one rider can be seen on a bicycle holding up his phone to film, while another is heard shouting angrily in the background. Feeling harassed, she later lodged a police report. Police have since confirmed that a case was filed.
Another rider involved, 38-year-old Mr Faizal, offered a different account. Speaking to the media, he claimed he had often seen Ms Hu riding recklessly on pedestrian walkways. “This wasn’t the first time. She rides fast and shouts at people to get out of the way. That night I decided to confront her, but yes, things got heated and vulgarities were exchanged,” he admitted.
Mr Faizal also stressed that he and his friend were on the cycling path, while Ms Hu was riding on the pedestrian walkway. He maintained that his frustration stemmed from repeated encounters where her riding behaviour seemed dangerous.
Safety Concerns on Shared Paths
The altercation has reignited concerns about safety on shared pathways, where pedestrians, cyclists and PMA users often jostle for space. With the growing number of food delivery riders in Singapore, conflicts over right of way have become increasingly common.
Transport experts have urged riders to stay mindful of pedestrians and to adhere to rules governing cycling paths and walkways. At the same time, clear communication and patience could help prevent small misunderstandings from escalating into public disputes.
For residents in Tampines, the clash serves as a reminder that road safety and mutual respect remain crucial in ensuring harmony in crowded urban areas.
Image Source: Shin Min Daily News