Man Sentenced for Searing Wife with Hot Water in Bedok
A 34‑year‑old man from Bedok North was handed a 11‑month jail term after he scalded his wife and repeatedly assaulted her in their HDB flat. The case, which involves a mix of domestic violence and breaches of a protection order, landed a surprising amount of media attention.
What Went Down
- On May 28, Philip Ong, a warehouse worker, got furious when his wife allegedly called him an “ah gua” – a Hokkien insult for a man who looks effeminate. Angry over the insult, he dumped a bucket of scalding hot water on his sleeping wife, leaving her with burns on her face and body.
- Earlier that same day, he punched her in the right eye after she overslept, further adding to the list of violent incidents.
- On June 2, a friend who overheard their argument called the police. Officer investigation revealed a blood‑shot eye and scald marks on the forearm, chest, and stomach.
- Even more incidents surfaced: on the same day, he punched the left side of his wife’s head after a quarrel over splitting $500 they received from ComCare.
- In a separate incident on Feb 15, he threw a traffic cone, hitting an unrelated woman’s arm while she walked past a pedestrian crossing.
- Ong even fought with a stranger in September 2021, shoving and kicking a 62‑year‑old man, causing the man to fall onto a stone bench.
Legal Consequences
- He pleaded guilty to five charges, including voluntarily causing hurt and breaching a protection order.
- Sentence: 11 months and 2 weeks in jail.
- For voluntary hurt, punishments can reach up to 3 years in prison or a fine of up to $5,000.
- Breaching a protection order can lead to up to 6 months in prison or a fine of up to $2,000.
Court Statements
Deputy Public Prosecutor Tan Yan Ying highlighted the severity of the injuries:
“The hurt in this case is very serious, with scald injuries on multiple parts of the body. The victim didn’t seek immediate medical help, which made the situation even more alarming.” – DPP Tan
Ong apologized in court via video link, pledging to manage his behavior and pursue treatment at the Institute of Mental Health.
Key Takeaway
Domestic violence can leave deep, lasting wounds – both physically and emotionally. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, it’s crucial to break the cycle by seeking help. Avoid escalating situations and remember that or refusal to cooperate with the authorities can lead to legal consequences.
