Australian man, 33, denied cigarette in Changi Airport holding room, allegedly sets blinds on fire with his lighter

A 33-year-old Australian man was arrested on Dec. 12 at Changi Airport for attempting to damage property by fire.

In a statement released by police on Dec. 12, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) said it was alerted to a case of a "violent male passenger at the Changi Airport Terminal 2 holding room" at approximately 2:15am that day.

The man had allegedly been verbally abusive towards auxiliary police officers after being denied a cigarette, said police.

Before the police arrived, the man allegedly removed the curtain blinds from the room and used his lighter to set it on fire.

He thereafter threatened to "spread the flames" if his demand was not met.

The fire was extinguished by police officers.

The man also discharged a fire extinguisher at the officers, and was subsequently arrested.

Commander of the Airport Police Division, Assistant Commissioner of Police M. Malathi commended the officers for responding to the situation "swiftly and decisively", saying:

"The police have zero tolerance against such brazen acts of violence against police officers and acts that endanger the lives or safety of others.

We will not hesitate to take firm action against those who blatantly disregard the law."

To be charged on Dec. 13

The man will be charged in court on Dec. 13 with the offence of mischief by fire with intent to cause damage, under Section 435 of the Penal Code.

The offence carries an imprisonment term of up to seven years, and a fine.

Investigations against him for other criminal offences are ongoing.

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