A 34-year-old Singaporean man was arrested on 2 September after allegedly touching a woman's buttock twice on the ground floor of a Housing & Development Board (HDB) block in Jurong West Avenue 1. According to a police press release, the man molested a 27-year-old woman and fled the scene, changing his attire to avoid detection. Officers from the Jurong Police Division tracked him down using CCTV and police cameras, arresting him two hours later.

Background

The suspect, Muhammad Hafiz Bin Salim, was charged in court on 19 September with two counts of outrage of modesty. Court records also indicate that he faces a charge of dishonest misappropriation of property, though details of this charge have not been disclosed. The incident reportedly occurred at approximately 7:37 pm and 7:39 pm, according to the charge sheets.

Court proceedings

During the court hearing, Hafiz indicated that he is not pleading guilty to the charges. If convicted of outrage of modesty, he faces a jail term of up to three years, a fine, caning, or any combination of these punishments. The court records reveal that Hafiz is maintaining his innocence in the face of the allegations.

Police response

The swift action by the Jurong Police Division highlights the effectiveness of surveillance technology in aiding law enforcement. The use of CCTV and police cameras was instrumental in tracking down Hafiz within two hours of the incident. This case underscores the importance of such technologies in ensuring public safety and aiding in the quick apprehension of suspects.

Legal implications

Outrage of modesty is a serious offence in Singapore, carrying severe penalties to deter such behaviour. The legal system aims to protect individuals from such violations and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable. The additional charge of dishonest misappropriation of property, although not detailed, adds another layer of complexity to Hafiz's legal troubles.

Community impact

Incidents like this can have a significant impact on the community, raising concerns about safety and security in public spaces. The prompt arrest of the suspect may provide some reassurance to residents, but it also serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and the importance of reporting suspicious activities to the authorities.

Future developments

As the case progresses, further details may emerge, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding the incident and the additional charge against Hafiz. The outcome of the trial will be closely watched, as it may set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future. The community and legal observers alike will be keen to see how justice is served in this matter.