When a Rope Course Goes Wrong: The Sad Story of Jethro’s Fall
It wasn’t just a misstep. It was a trip to the theatre of life that ended too soon.
Who’s In the Picture?
- Mohamed Din – 22‑year‑old facilitator at Safra Adventure Sports Centre.
- Jethro Puah Xin Yang – 15‑year‑old student from Anglo‑Chinese School (Independent).
- Sheriff Azri Imran Tan – lawyer representing Din.
The Day That shatters
On a crisp afternoon, 1.25 pm on February 3rd last year, Jethro was all set for an adventure on the Canopy Sky Walk rope course. He was wearing a safety harness—think of it as a life‑saver that wraps around the legs.
Din allegedly didn’t make sure the two leg straps were snug. The straps slipped, Jethro fell, the harness loosened, and boom—his leg straps unbuckled. The youngster was left hanging, with no purchase on the rope, and tragically, he was strangled. The incident led to multiple organ failure, and finally, the heartbreaking reality: he didn’t survive.
Legal Catch‑Up
Din has been charged with “causing death by a rash act not amounting to homicide.” In simpler terms, it’s a serious offence that says “you, my friend, are to be careful! Because you were careless.”
The potential consequences? A sentence of up to five years’ jail and a hefty fine—nothing small.
Why It Matters
This isn’t just about a rope or a harness. It’s about the youth who dreamed of climbing the skies and the adults entrusted to keep them safe. When an adult caretaker slips into an ordinary oversight, the result hits far beyond a single person—it ripples through families, communities, and the local school.
Takeaway
If you ever hand a child a piece of equipment, double‑check that it’s locked tight. Because we want everyone to get off the ropes safe and sound. Let’s keep our adventures uplifting, not tales of tragedy.
