False Terror Threat: Man to be Charged – Bukit Timah Church

Singapore Man Charged After False Terrorist Threat at St.Joseph’s Church

A 26-year-old Singaporean man will be charged with making a false terrorist threat after a fabricated device prompted an evacuation at St.Joseph’s Church in Bukit Timah on Sunday, December 22.Authorities have confirmed the incident was not religiously motivated or an act of terror,but rather a staged event. The suspect is expected to undergo psychiatric evaluation.

Church Evacuated Following suspicious Item Finding

On Sunday, December 22, at approximately 7:10 a.m., police responded to a call regarding a suspicious item discovered at St. Joseph’s Church,located along Upper Bukit Timah Road. upon arrival, the 26-year-old man reportedly claimed to have found the item in a drain within the church grounds.

According to police reports, the man then “immobilized himself and held on to the suspicious item,” prompting a swift and comprehensive response from law enforcement. In the interest of public safety, the church premises were immediately evacuated, and a police cordon was established.

Did you know? – Singapore has strict laws regarding false alarms and threats, reflecting the nation’s emphasis on security and public order. Penalties can be severe, including imprisonment and ample fines.

Device Identified as Non-Explosive Fabrication

The Singapore Armed Forces’ (SAF) Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Explosive Defence Group was activated to assess the potential threat. Following a thorough investigation, authorities steadfast the item, which initially resembled an improvised explosive device, was in fact constructed from “three cardboard rolls and wires taped with black tape with no explosive elements present.” The device was safely removed from the scene at approximately 10:40 a.m.

The police cordon was lifted at 5:10 p.m., and thankfully, no injuries were reported. All scheduled mass services for Sunday were canceled as a precautionary measure.

Pro tip – In situations involving potential threats, authorities prioritize public safety through evacuation and thorough investigation. Cooperating with law enforcement is crucial for a swift and safe resolution.

Legal Ramifications and ongoing Investigation

The suspect was arrested under Regulation 8(2)(a) of the United Nations (anti-terrorism Measures) Regulations. He will be formally charged in court on Monday, December 23. If convicted, he faces a potential sentence of up to 10 years in jail, a fine of up to S$500,000 (approximately US$386,757), or both.

A request has been submitted to have the suspect remanded for a psychiatric evaluation to assess his mental state. The singapore Police Force (SPF) has stated that preliminary investigations suggest the man acted alone.

St. Joseph’s Church has announced that masses will resume “as per normal” on Monday, December 23, following the all-clear from authorities.

Reader question – What factors do you think contribute to the severity of penalties for false threat reports? Share your thoughts.

Why did this happen? A 26-year-old Singaporean man fabricated a threat by claiming to have found a suspicious item at St. Joseph’s Church.
Who was involved? The primary individual involved is the 26-year-old suspect. Authorities including the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and the Singapore Armed Forces’ (SAF) Chemical,Biological,Radiological and Explosive Defence group responded. St. Joseph’s Church and its parishioners were also directly affected.
What occurred? The man reported finding a suspicious item, resembling an improvised explosive device, and immobilized himself with it, leading to the church’s evacuation and a thorough investigation. The item was later determined to be a non-explosive fabrication.
How did it end? The device was safely removed, the police cordon was lifted, and the suspect was arrested and will