SINGAPORE – A Singaporean man is on trial for attempted murder after intentionally running over a Bangladeshi man with a rented van in Kaki Bukit, an incident that ultimately proved fatal. The case, unfolding in the High Court, raises questions about motive and intent in a dispute rooted in illicit trade.
Contraband Cigarettes and a Deadly Confrontation
The prosecution alleges Toh Sze Ee deliberately targeted Hossen selim, escalating a disagreement over alleged involvement with authorities.
- toh sze Ee,51,faces attempted murder charges for the March 16,2023,incident.
- The victim, Hossen Selim, 32, died in Bangladesh approximately two years after the attack, succumbing to severe injuries.
- The dispute stemmed from dealings in contraband cigarettes and accusations of informing authorities.
- Prosecutors claim Toh intentionally ran over Mr. Selim, while Toh maintains he fell asleep at the wheel.
The court heard on January 15 that Toh Sze Ee, 51, and Hossen Selim where acquainted through their involvement with the illegal cigarette trade. Mr. Selim was arrested by singapore Customs in February 2023 regarding contraband cigarettes,while Toh evaded capture. Deputy Public Prosecutor Hay Hung Chun told the court that Toh confronted Mr. Selim, suspecting he had implicated him in the investigation.
On March 16, 2023, Toh drove to meet Mr. selim. He then drove Toh to the home of his girlfriend, Irene Kwok, who informed him that police were searching for him. Toh abruptly left after retrieving his phone. Days later, when questioned by Ms. Kwok, Toh claimed the victim had suddenly turned right, and he was unable to brake in time.
“The accused did not inform Teo and Irene that he had fallen asleep at the wheel during the collision,” DPP Hay stated.
Mr.Selim underwent multiple surgeries,initially receiving care in the intensive care unit,then the high dependency unit,and later a general ward. By March 26, 2023, he was moved to the high dependency unit, and by April 3, 2023, to a general ward, where he was diagnosed with “no capacity.” He was repatriated to Bangladesh and died in February 2025.
A psychiatric evaluation revealed Toh has a history of substance use disorder and antisocial personality disorder,but no major psychiatric condition. Dr. Charles Mak, who is expected to testify, indicated in a report that it was unlikely Toh had fallen asleep at the wheel due to fatigue or withdrawal from methamphetamine use on the day of the incident.
The trial continues, with the court set to examine the evidence and determine whether Toh Sze Ee acted intentionally or whether the incident was, as he claims, a tragic accident.
