A 24-year-old woman, Michelle Leong Yi Ling, and her 27-year-old boyfriend, Keith Ong Wei Han, vandalised the Red Cross House in Dhoby Ghaut, Singapore, in the early hours of October 8, 2023. After sharing half a bottle of vodka at a nearby bar, Leong spray-painted a profanity on a pillar and, together with Ong, defaced the walls. This incident occurred just five days after the Red Cross House had celebrated its reopening, officiated by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam.
Background
Leong and Ong had been drinking at Stickies bar in Dhoby Ghaut before they walked to the Red Cross House on Penang Lane. The building, originally opened in 1961, had been closed for refurbishment in May 2023 and was reopened on October 3, 2023. Security footage captured the pair entering the premises at about 12:50 am.
Spray-painted profanity on pillar
Leong used a can of black spray paint to write a profanity and a symbol on a pillar, while Ong spray-painted the words “I’ll kill every1” on the walls. According to The Straits Times, Leong appeared satisfied with their work, and the couple posed for photos while embracing. They left the premises at around 2:05 am and returned to Ong’s home. Contractors discovered the vandalism at 8 am and repainted the walls and pillars to cover the damage. Photos from Leong’s phone were later submitted as evidence in court.
Pleaded guilty
On September 12, Leong pleaded guilty to one count of mischief, with another count of trespassing to be considered during sentencing. The judge convicted Leong but called for a report to determine her suitability for probation. She is currently out on S$10,000 bail. Ong faces similar charges of mischief and trespass, as well as a separate charge of voluntarily causing hurt to a man.
Future implications
The vandalism incident at the Red Cross House has raised concerns about security measures at significant landmarks in Singapore. The swift action by contractors to cover the damage highlights the importance of maintaining the integrity of such institutions. As the court proceedings continue, the case serves as a reminder of the consequences of irresponsible behaviour and the legal repercussions that follow.
