A 46-year-old woman has been arrested after a fire erupted inside a Housing and Development Board (HDB) flat in Sembawang on the evening of June 30.
Emergency services were called to the incident at Block 512 Wellington Circle at approximately 5:15pm after reports of a unit engulfed in flames and thick smoke.
According to the authorities, the fire originated in a bedroom of a 10th-floor flat and was successfully brought under control by firefighters shortly after their arrival.
Thick Smoke and Flames Seen from Residential Unit
Videos circulating on social media showed dramatic scenes as bright flames and heavy black smoke poured from the windows of the affected unit.
Residents in the vicinity reportedly witnessed the blaze spreading rapidly within the room before emergency responders arrived at the scene.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said firefighters used a water jet to extinguish the fire and prevent it from spreading to neighbouring units within the residential block.
Woman Taken to Hospital Following Incident
The Singapore Police Force confirmed that a 46-year-old woman was found at the scene and was conscious when she was transported to Singapore General Hospital.
She was reportedly suffering from smoke inhalation and received medical attention following the incident.
Subsequently, the woman was arrested on suspicion of mischief by fire.
Authorities have not disclosed her identity, and no other injuries were reported as a result of the incident.
Preliminary Findings Suggest Fire Was Deliberately Set
Initial investigations indicate that the fire may have been intentionally started.
Based on preliminary findings, investigators believe the blaze was deliberately set within the flat, although the exact circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.
Both the police and SCDF are continuing their inquiries to establish the full sequence of events and determine whether additional offences may have been committed.
Cases involving suspected arson are treated seriously in Singapore due to the significant danger posed to residents living in densely populated public housing estates.
Investigations Ongoing
Authorities have not released further details regarding the motive behind the alleged act.
Residents affected by the incident were able to return to their homes after firefighters ensured the area was safe.
The case remains under investigation, and more information is expected to be released once authorities complete their findings.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety awareness in high-density residential environments, where a single blaze can potentially endanger numerous households.