A 37-year-old man has been charged in connection with a shocking stabbing incident at St Joseph’s Church in Upper Bukit Timah that sent ripples of concern through the nation and prompted a show of unity among various religious groups against violence.
Basnayake Keith Spencer, a Singaporean, appeared in court on November 11 via video-link from his remand facility, facing a single charge of voluntarily causing grievous hurt using a dangerous weapon.
The charge stems from an incident that occurred during a children’s mass on November 9, where he allegedly attacked Father Christopher Lee Kwong Heng, stabbing him in the mouth with a foldable knife.
According to the news report, the attack inflicted a serious 8 cm laceration on Father Lee’s tongue, alongside a 3 cm cut on his upper lip and a 4 cm cut at the corner of his mouth.
Witnesses reported that the violent incident unfolded during communion, an integral part of the monthly children’s mass where young parishioners take on roles typically reserved for adults, including singing in the choir.
Members of the congregation rushed to help subdue Spencer, who was reportedly threatening attendees with the weapon.
The police later discovered four additional weapons, including a penknife and a mallet, in Spencer’s possession.
Authorities confirmed that Spencer is not a regular attendee at the church.
Preliminary investigations indicate that he acted alone, and authorities do not currently suspect any links to terrorism.
Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam addressed the incident, revealing that Spencer, a Sinhalese, had previously declared himself a Christian to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority.
In a separate statement from Mr K Shanmugam, the Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law said,
“Encouraged to read about the outpouring of support from the other faiths in Singapore in the immediate aftermath of the attack. We have seen in other countries that violent incidents in a religious setting or with religious undertones can sometimes spark distrust and suspicion between religious communities. We are fortunate that in Singapore, our various faiths and their leaders have instead stood shoulder to shoulder in support of each other during trying times, including this incident. This will stand our society in good stead if and when other attacks, including terror attacks, take place.”
According to CNA, during the court proceedings, Spencer, dressed in a white polo shirt and handcuffed, displayed a tense demeanor, responding to inquiries with short, one-word answers. Given the severity of the situation, the police prosecutor requested a three-week remand for psychiatric evaluation, a request granted by the judge, with a follow-up court date set for December 2.
Father Lee, the parish priest, underwent surgery and is now reported to be in stable condition and recovering in the hospital.
BACK STORY
On November 9, 2024, a 57-year-old priest at St. Joseph’s Church in Singapore was stabbed during a mass. The incident occurred around 6:30 PM, and the priest was promptly conveyed to the hospital in stable condition, remaining conscious throughout the ordeal.
Preliminary investigations by the Police revealed that a 37-year-old Singaporean man, who allegedly acted alone, was responsible for the attack. Two members of the congregation disarmed the suspect before police officers arrived on the scene within ten minutes.
The suspect has a history of serious hurt and drug misuse offenses, but authorities have found no evidence to suggest that the attack was motivated by religious or terror-related intent.
In response to the incident, the Police have increased patrols at places of worship to reassure the public and enhance safety. They are in contact with St. Joseph’s Church to offer support and resources to congregants, including professional psychological assistance for those, especially children, who witnessed the troubling event.
Under Singapore law, a person found guilty of voluntarily causing grievous hurt by a dangerous weapon could face severe penalties, including a potential life sentence. If the court opts for a lesser sentence, Spencer may still face up to 15 years in prison, along with fines and caning.
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