SINGAPORE – The start of the new year at Orchard Central in Singapore was marred by a violent knife attack, leaving five individuals with severe injuries. The incident took place in the early hours of New Year’s Day on the 11th floor of the busy shopping mall, which houses a dance club, steakhouse, and restaurant. The unnerving turn of events shattered the festive atmosphere and sent shockwaves through the local community.
Upon receiving a distress call, the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) swiftly responded to the scene, transporting the wounded individuals to Singapore General Hospital. Their prompt action potentially prevented further harm or loss of life, showcasing their readiness to handle emergency situations.
As the day broke, the aftermath of the violent incident was evident in a 200-meter stretch of bloodstains on the mall’s floor. Despite efforts to clean up, the stains served as a haunting reminder of the turmoil that had gripped the once lively shopping center. This disturbing occurrence adds to an alarming trend of knife-related crimes in Singapore, with an average of 150 such crimes reported each year from 2017 to 2021.
Just two weeks prior to the Orchard Central attack, a 61-year-old man was arrested for launching a knife attack at three individuals in a mobile phone shop at Pasir Ris West Plaza. These incidents underscore the disconcerting pervasiveness of knife crime in Singapore, raising concerns about the safety of public spaces and the need for effective measures to curb such violence. It is a sobering reality that demands collective effort and robust law enforcement to preserve the peace and safety of every citizen.
In the wake of these tragic events, it is paramount for authorities to address the underlying issues that contribute to such violence and take proactive steps to ensure the safety and well-being of the community. The disturbing incidents at Orchard Central and Pasir Ris West Plaza serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive measures to combat knife-related crimes and uphold the peace that Singapore is known for. The safety and security of the public must remain a top priority for the authorities as they work towards curbing the prevalence of such violent acts in the country.