Man Arrested in Singapore After Parcel Containing Pork Sent to Mosque
Authorities said they were alerted on Sept 24 after a suspicious package was delivered to a mosque at Serangoon North Avenue 2 around 5.20 pm. The parcel, which contained pork, led to the evacuation of Al-Istiqamah Mosque.
One individual was assessed for breathlessness and sent to Sengkang General Hospital, but was later discharged. No hazardous substances were discovered.
The suspect was identified through ground inquiries and police camera footage and was arrested the following day. Preliminary investigations suggest he may have been involved in similar incidents at other mosques in Singapore, the Straits Times reported on Saturday.
Police said in a statement that the man would be charged on Sept 27 with the offence of deliberately intending to wound the racial feelings of a person. The charge carries a penalty of up to three years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both.
“The police take a very serious view of acts that threaten Singapore’s racial and religious harmony. Such behaviour will not be condoned, and offenders will be dealt with firmly in accordance with the law,” the statement said.
Read More:
Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam described the incident as inflammatory regardless of its content. “Whatever the motive, this is playing with fire. We are treating this matter very seriously. We will deal firmly with anyone found responsible,” he told reporters on Sept 25.
The case has drawn condemnation from religious leaders and community groups. The Inter-Religious Organisation (IRO) stressed that places of worship must remain “safe and peaceful spaces for all.” The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) urged calm during Friday prayers and asked the community to avoid spreading unverified information.
The Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth said the mosque leadership’s decision to continue prayers reflected “the solidarity that defines Singapore’s response to such provocations.”
The Sikh Advisory Board also voiced support, standing in solidarity with the Muslim community.
Source: Agencies
