A Man With a Blade Gets Tossed in Boon Lay on New Year’s Eve
On the night of January 1st, a 52‑year‑old guy who decided to bring a long bladed weapon into the streets of Singapore was apprehended after a dramatic showdown with the police on Boon Lay Drive. It looked like a scene from a gritty action flick—except it happened in real life and it ended without anyone getting hurt.
The Moment of Showdown
- At about 5:18 pm, officers were dispatched to Block 191 after a call for help.
- The suspect, a man sporting a sword that leaned awkwardly against his neck, challenged at least three police officers.
- One cop had a riot shield in hand, while two others rocked helmets like superheroes.
- “Drop the weapon,” the officers shouted, but the man stayed stubborn in his grip.
- Rolling into action, the officers tackled him, wrestled the blade away, and told him to lie down.
- No one was injured—thanks to the officers’ swift moves.
Why Nobody Can Just Carry a Sword in Public
- In Singapore, a bladed weapon is classified as an “offensive weapon” if it could easily cause harm.
- Owning certain swords is fine if you have a valid permit, but nothing is allowed to be carried openly without a good reason.
- Under the Corrosive and Explosive Substances and Offensive Weapons Act, anyone found carrying a sword in public without permission faces up to three years in jail and up to six caning strokes.
- Back in 2014, a 39‑year‑old sword instructor got off the rails by bringing a samurai sword onto a bus and MRT train. He even poked a fellow passenger—ending up in a seven‑week jail term.
Bottom Line
Wearing a sword on a New Year’s Eve street fight may not make you look like a movie hero—especially when the police are in the mix. If you’re thinking about carrying a blade in Singapore, just remember: the law is firm, the penalties are literal, and the officers are ready to take you down.
