Singapore’s Dark Twist: A New Domestic‑Violence Story
Since the pandemic turned our island into a lockdown bubble, reports of domestic abuse have risen like a bad headline. A recent MSF report put the numbers in stark perspective:
- April‑May spike: an average of 485 complaints a month – a 25.6% jump from the 386 a month earlier.
- Before the Circuit Breaker that hit in February and March.
Authorities have sprung up helplines and immediate‑support centres trying to turn the tide, and many of us were refreshed by the idea that the tide might change.
But Reality’s Got a Shocky Twist
A sobering case has unfolded: a Singaporean man has been convicted of domestic violence against his pregnant girlfriend and sentenced to five months behind bars.
The alleged drama? She was kicked in the belly and the law‑enforcers describe it as “dragging her down the floor by the hair.”
Why This Should Hit You
When you’re walking through your neighborhood, you can’t help but feel a sense of collective safety – until the news laughs back at you with a headline that laughs too loudly.
This incident underscores that even with helplines, the shadow of abuse still looms. It’s a painful reminder that the conversation about domestic violence must stay on track: support, prevention, and a clear message that no one should ever be in this situation.
What’s Next?
- More public policing? Perhaps.
- Community workshops? Definitely.
- Calls for stronger laws and better enforcement? Yes, absolutely.
Let’s keep this conversation alive, laugh at the absurdities of life together, yet never forget that every unspoken incident carries a weight that matters more than a headline can ever capture.
Domestic violence on a pregnant woman: Man kicks pregnant girlfriend in her stomach
Chaos in the Classroom: A Raging Tale of a Love Gone Wrong
Back in early August, Goppinath Rajah, a commercial driver, found himself in a heated argument with his 30‑year‑old girlfriend over the phone. The spark? She flat‑out said no to a move‑in plan he’d been pushing.
The Fallout
Thinking he’d just take up permanent residence, Goppinath tracked girlfriend to her workplace—a secondary school on the western edge of Singapore. She worked as an administrative officer there.
Once he walked in, tempers flared. A brawl broke out that escalated fast:
- Goppinath shoved her to the floor.
- He started hitting her.
- Despite knowing she was four months pregnant, he kicked and punched underneath.
- He also grabbed her hair and dragged her across the floor.
Inside the school, a handful of staff heard the chaos and tried to stop it. The whole mess ended up at the Police Cantonment Complex, where Goppinath didn’t hold back. He allegedly spat at an officer and unleashed a torrent of swears.
What the Courts Heard
The judge took note of Goppinath’s job status as a commercial driver and the aggravating factor of the violent insistence he had on the girlfriend’s body. The case is now part of a larger discussion on domestic abuse and the seriousness of the offence.
Man sentenced to five months’ jail
When a Cops‑and‑Gangs Drama Crossed Paths
Picture this: a woman wades into National University Hospital clutching her head, her body a patchwork of bruises that tell a story of a rough encounter. To everyone’s relief, the tiny life inside the womb was left completely unscathed.
Goppinath Gets a Court‑Rash Card
On Monday, Oct. 11, the man—yes, Goppinath—walked into a court room with a guilty‑plea in hand. The judge had a clear ticket‑to‑go list:
- Voluntarily causing hurt
- Using criminal force to thwart a public servant’s duty
- Three more undercover charges that pulled him into the legal whirlpool
That’s when the fingers of justice began to curl, and he was promptly sent to jail.
The 2019 “Funeral Fumble”
Flashback to December 2019—Goppinath had a notorious run-in: hand signs armed with gang swagger and screams of “gang” chants marched right through a solemn funeral procession. He tried to swipe a “denial” card, but the police gave him a polite, “Watch this in the future” warning. He walked away, lightly bragging about the “good vibes.”
But it didn’t stop there. While leaving, he tossed a brand‑new gang sign, shouted a swagger‑laden phrase, and the booking scene hit pause. That second act was crisp enough to bring him straight to the cuffs—no chances, no warnings.
Bottom Line
Between the bruises and the legal wrangling, this tale reminds us that a simple misstep—whether at a funeral or on a street—can ripple into a courtroom drama that ends with a slap‑on‑the‑back of jail time.
Seeking help for domestic violence
Need a Hand? Phone It Out!
Feeling stuck in a scary situation? Don’t stay silent—reach out for help. Call the police or dial 999 if you’re in immediate danger.
Other Quick Ways to Get Support
- Call your nearest Family Service Centre for anyone who’s dealing with tough times.
- Text / WhatsApp: Helpline numbers listed below for a quick chat.
Every call could be the first step toward safety and peace. Don’t wait—call now and let the right people lend a hand!
SINGAPORE HELPLINES
Domestic Violence in Singapore: You’re Not Alone—Help Is Just a Call Away
For anyone facing abusive situations in Singapore, there is a network of hotlines and support services ready to assist you. Whether you’re experiencing physical, emotional, or financial abuse, you can reach out for help, get legal guidance, and find counseling.
Key Resources – Speak Up, Stay Safe
- Samaritans of Singapore – 1800-221-4444
- Singapore Association for Mental Health – 1800-283-7019
- Care Corner Counselling Centre (Mandarin) – 1800-353-5800
- Institute of Mental Health’s Helpline – 6389-2222
- Silver Ribbon – 6386-1928
- Shan You Counselling Centre (Mandarin) – 6741-0078
- Fei Yue’s Online Counselling Service – www.eC2.sg
These lines are open 24/7, and the people on the other end are trained professionals who listen, advise, and help you navigate the next steps. If you feel unsafe, dialing one of these numbers is a smart move—think of them as your personal “SOS” button.
What to Expect From Each Hotline
- Samaritans of Singapore offers emotional support and helps you connect to local shelter options.
- Singapore Association for Mental Health provides mental health counseling and psycho‑education about coping mechanisms.
- Care Corner and Shan You cater specially to Mandarin‑speaking victims, making communication smoother.
- Institute of Mental Health focuses on psychiatric support for those dealing with trauma and PTSD.
- Silver Ribbon specializes in rehabilitation services for abused women and their children.
- Fei Yue offers online counseling—ideal if you prefer a discreet, tech‑friendly approach.
Legal Context – Jail Terms and What They Mean
In Singapore, domestic violence can lead to criminal charges. The Crimes Prevention Act and the Protection from Abuse Act protect victims and set out penalties for offenders. Depending on the severity, an abusive partner may face:
- Short prison terms ranging from a few months to several years.
- Mandatory counseling or rehabilitation programs.
- Restrictions on contact, including no phone or in‑person visitation.
If you’re pregnant and experiencing abuse, there are specialized resources and legal safeguards that can protect both you and the baby. Courts can issue residential orders to keep you safe on your homestead.
Keeping the Spirits High – A Quick Laugh Note
We know that confronting a situation like this can feel like standing in a whirlwind—one moment, you’re holding the line, the next, you’re juggling legal jargon. But remember, these lines are staffed by human beings ready to help, not automated agents. They’re here like a careful friend who, after all, wouldn’t send you a pizza delivery button while you’re in danger.
Take That First Step
Don’t wait for the signs to vanish. If you’ve just realized you’re in a safe environment, think of this as your “takeaway jar.” Grab a phone, pick a number, and say “Hi, I need help.” The conversation that follows will be the first page of your renewed safety plan.
Because every story deserves a happy ending, and you deserve the support to rewrite yours.
