An 18-year-old motorcyclist involved in a fatal chase along Seletar Expressway (SLE) on 4 June 2024 is set to plead guilty. During a pre-trial conference on 9 September, the teen indicated he would accept the prosecution’s plea offer. He is scheduled to plead guilty on 22 October before Deputy Principal District Judge Kessler Soh. The teen faces 13 charges, including consuming methamphetamine in August 2023, dangerous driving to evade a Land Transport Authority (LTA) officer, and possessing a samurai sword. His identity remains protected under the Children and Young Persons Act as he was 17 when he allegedly consumed methamphetamine.
Background
The incident resulted in the death of LTA enforcement officer Mr Zdulfika Ahakasah, 26, who was pursuing the teenager on a motorcycle. The chase occurred along the SLE towards Bukit Timah Expressway. A video shared online showed the officer and the teenager on the road shoulder at the TPE exit, both accelerating and cutting in front of a petroleum truck. The officer crashed into the road divider and was thrown off his motorbike. He was taken to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries. Mr Ahakasah was set to marry his fiancée in July 2024, having completed his wedding preparations.
Fatal accident
The chase began when the LTA officer attempted to stop the teenager, who was riding dangerously. The video footage revealed the high-speed pursuit, with both parties narrowly avoiding a petroleum truck. The officer’s crash into the road divider was captured, followed by scenes of a police car and tow truck at the site. Debris was scattered on the ground, and the officer lay injured before being transported to the hospital. The tragic event cut short Mr Ahakasah’s life just weeks before his planned wedding.
Said he’s not to blame
On 6 June, the teenager claimed he was not to blame for the officer’s death. “I gambled my life as much as he gambled his. The death, I may be one of the contributing factors, but I am not to be blamed,” he stated in court, causing an audible gasp among those present. This statement has sparked significant public and media attention, adding to the gravity of the upcoming court proceedings.
Legal proceedings and future implications
The teenager’s court appearance on 22 October will be closely watched, given the severity of the charges and the public interest in the case. If found guilty, the teen faces severe penalties, including the possibility of the death penalty. This case highlights the dangers of high-speed chases and the tragic consequences that can result. It also underscores the importance of stringent enforcement of traffic laws and the need for responsible behaviour on the roads. The outcome of this case may influence future policies and enforcement strategies to prevent similar incidents.
