Groundbreaking Verdict – 15‑Year Sentence for Serial Offender
Who is the culprit?
Soffiyan Hamzah, the man who hid behind the Facebook handle “ItsmeDeedeeYourfrenlyfren,” was a 38‑year‑old LTA security auditor who preyed on unsuspecting boys from 2015 all the way to March of this year. Eighty‑one victims? No, just 15 minors who fell into his trap.
Unpacking the Charges
- A guilty plea on eight counts of sexual penetration of minors under 16
- Seven more similar counts plus 68 charges of commercial sex with boys under 18
- Four accusations of sexual grooming and three under the Films Act for holding 453 obscene films
Judge’s Words
District Judge Jasvender Kaur called Soffiyan a serial offender and reminded the court: “The law exists to protect young persons.”
Prosecution’s Argument
Deputy Public Prosecutor Gail Wong warned that every victim was left exposed to sexually transmitted diseases because Soffiyan never used condoms. She told us that one 14‑year‑old let him pose “porn‑star style” and he captured his private parts on camera. Another 17‑year‑old girl fell for his recorded video while he performed oral sex.
How He Grossed Them
Soffiyan was known only as “Dee” or “Dee Dee.” He kept his real name a secret. In his Facebook bio he declared himself gay, openly offering oral sex to anyone, and even promised a $100 fee after each encounter.
Typical Meeting Venues
- Mostly near MRT stations – “his work” as he advertised
- Countless deals took place in a toilet at JCube Shopping Centre, Jurong
How the Case Unfolded
A 15‑year‑old victim tipped his teacher after being introduced by his older brother (who was also a victim). On 10 March last year, the teacher alerted the police and Soffiyan was apprehended three days later.
Conclusion
The judge delivered a stern 15‑year sentence, hoping to send a clear message that the law is here to shield anyone’s childhood from such vile exploitation.
