A 33-year-old Australian man has been arrested at Changi Airport, where he allegedly set fire to curtain blinds in a holding room.
The incident occurred around 2:15 AM on Thursday at Terminal 2, prompting a swift response from the police.
According to a police report, the man became verbally abusive towards auxiliary police officers after his request for a cigarette was denied.
In a fit of anger, he removed the curtain blinds from the holding room and ignited them with a lighter. He further threatened to escalate the situation by spreading the flames if his demands were not met.
Airport Police Division officers arrived on the scene shortly after and quickly extinguished the fire, preventing any further damage or danger.
The confrontation escalated as the man allegedly sprayed a fire extinguisher at the responding officers.
The police have stated that he will be charged with mischief by fire with intent to cause damage, which carries a potential penalty of up to seven years in prison and a fine if convicted.
Assistant Commissioner of Police M Malathi, commander of the Airport Police Division, condemned the incident, emphasizing the police’s “zero tolerance” policy towards violence against officers and acts that jeopardize public safety.
“We will not hesitate to take firm action against those who blatantly disregard the law,” she stated.
The man is expected to face charges in court on Friday.
Image via google for illustration
