Subway Sandwich‑Maker Jailed for Seven Months After Molesting NUS Student
In a shocking turn of events at the National University of Singapore (NUS), a 34‑year‑old employee of a Subway sandwich shop was sentenced to a seven‑month prison term after molesting a male student. The case, which has rattled the campus community, highlights the serious repercussions of sexual misconduct, even in everyday settings.
Who is the Perpetrator?
- Arjunan Rajakumar – A 34‑year‑old Malaysian who was working at a Subway outlet inside the NUS campus at the time of the offences.
- He faced charges for two counts of assault or the use of criminal force with the intention to outrage modesty.
The Victim and How It Unfolded
- Victim – An 18‑year‑old NUS student, resident in one of the campus’s residential colleges.
- In August 2017, while the student was washing his hands in the male toilet, Rajakumar entered the same room and began a conversation.
- The assailant then coaxed the victim closer, proceeded to molest him, and even tried to make the student promise silence.
- Despite the victim’s attempts to push his hands away, Rajakumar continued, grabbing his arm and asking if he was afraid.
- By the time the police were notified, he had already initiated a second assault.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
- Deputy Public Prosecutor Chee Ee Ling pushed for an eight‑month minimum sentence, stressing the emotional trauma inflicted on the victim.
- The victim reportedly avoided crossing the Subway location to steer clear of the perpetrator, forcing him to relocate to a different residential block.
- Rajakumar’s lawyer argued for a four‑month term, citing the absence of premeditation and the lack of overt force.
- Ultimately, the court decided on a seven‑month sentence, ensuring Rajakumar would lose his job at the Subway outlet in Suntec City and face deportation after serving his time.
Takeaway
Even in a place known for its daily rituals—preparing sandwiches—people can surprise us with darkness. This case serves as a stark reminder that respect and consent are paramount, no matter how routine the environment. The campus community will no doubt take steps to reinforce safety protocols and ensure such incidents never happen again.
