S'pore man, 42, used flamethrower-like weapon against police officers, will be charged for attempted murder

A 42-year-old man in Singapore will be charged in court for attempted murder after he allegedly used an improvised weapon similar to a flamethrower against police officers on Nov. 8.

The man was later shot in the left forearm and abdomen by an officer, and arrested.

Used improvised weapon against officers

Police were alerted to a call at around 6am on Nov. 8 claiming that a woman was sitting on the ledge at the top of a tower in Pasir Ris Park, said Assistant Commissioner Justin Wong of Bedok Police Division at a press conference on the same day.

According to the police, officers responding to the call did not see anyone at the tower when they arrived.

They then saw a man at a nearby hut while searching the vicinity.

When the officers approached the man, he deployed an improvised device which ejected flames towards the officers.

The officers drew their weapons and commanded him to stop and drop the device.

Despite multiple warnings, the man refused to comply and continued to advance towards the officers with the improvised device.

As there was imminent threat to the officers' safety, a 30-year-old police officer shot the man once with his pistol.

The man was immediately arrested after falling to the ground.

A knife was also found near him.

The improvised device and knife were seized as case exhibits.

Sustained wounds to left forearm and abdomen, currently undergoing surgery

The man suffered puncture wounds on his left forearm and abdomen.

He was treated with first aid at the scene, before being sent to the hospital in a conscious state.

The man is currently undergoing surgery.

A 24-year-old police officer sustained abrasions and was treated at the scene.

Had apparently called police to lure them, has outstanding arrest warrant

Early investigations revealed that the man allegedly made the call and gave false information to lure the police to the location.

The man also has an outstanding warrant of arrest against him for failing to attend court for his alleged involvement in a case of voluntarily causing grievous hurt and intentional harassment.

He also has multiple past records of hurt and property offences.

To be charged at a later date

The man will be charged at a later date for alleged attempted murder.

The maximum penalty for attempted murder is life imprisonment and caning.

If found guilty, he may also be sentenced to imprisonment of up to 20 years, along with a fine, caning, or both.

Wong said, "This appeared to be a targeted attack against our police officers."

He added: "Our officers responded decisively according to the situation and their training. I am proud of their courage and resilience."

Wong said that the police "stand resolute in the face of threats to protect the public and its officers", as part of keeping Singapore safe and secure.

Investigations are ongoing.

Top photo by Seri Mazliana