Justice in the Headlines: How Singapore’s CNB Handled a Teenager’s Tragic Fall
Just a summary, no jargon, just the facts and the human side of a story that shocked a whole city.
What Really Happened?
- 17‑year‑old Justin was arrested for drug trafficking in February 2021.
- He was found dead on Sept. 16 after falling from a building—three months after his arrest.
- Stories surfaced online when his mum Cecilia Ow posted a letter to the Minister of Law, complaining about how her son was treated.
- CNB (Central Narcotics Bureau) dug into everything and issued a statement on Oct. 22.
CNB’s Response: “Everything was done appropriately”
In its own words:
- “Justin was treated professionally and fairly. He was coherent and articulate in all recorded interviews.”
- They did two medical checks (Feb 4 & Jun 23, 2021) and found nothing — no health concerns.
- No delay in the investigation or prosecution, per their internal review.
- Autopsy showed a trace of LSD (a Class A controlled drug) in his urine and blood.
Getting to the Bottom of the Mother’s Letter
Ms Ow demanded:
- A special police unit trained in mental‑health care for young offenders.
- Proof that Justin was treated fairly in custody (water, meals, blankets, no physical force).
CNB answered each point:
- All suspects receive plenty of water to produce urine samples.
- Surveillance footage confirms a blanket was given; meals and drinks were served.
- When the court schedules matter, the prosecution was ready for a plea on Jun 24, but the defence adjourned four times.
- The Appropriate Adult Scheme meant he could have support, and he had already reported a diagnosed depression. CNB used video‑recorded interviews to protect him.
Did Justin Have a Chance?
CNB says their officers never used force or harsh language. They tried to release him on bail as soon as possible—though the process couldn’t be rushed when death struck on Sept. 16.
Emotion, Humor, and Humanity
This story isn’t just about procedures; it’s a sobering reminder that the law touches very real lives. Even when your headlines read “CNB Launches Internal Probe”, the heart of the matter is a boy’s tragic life cut short, a mother’s plea, and a bureaucracy’s attempt to balance justice and compassion.
So there you have it: a version that keeps the facts straight and the tone a little lighter, while still honoring the seriousness of a real human loss.
SINGAPORE HELPLINES
Need a Hand? Here’s Singapore’s Mental Health Lifelines
If you’re feeling like you’ve hit a wall or just need someone to talk to, there are dozens of friendly spots you can reach out to in SG. Below is a quick, low‑stress guide to the hotlines and services that stand ready to listen, share a laugh, or just keep you company.
1‑767 – Samaritans of Singapore
1800‑283‑7019 – Singapore Association for Mental Health (SAMH)
1800‑353‑5800 – Care Corner Counselling Centre (Mandarin)
6389‑2222 – Institute of Mental Health (IMH) Mental Health Helpline
6386‑1928 – Silver Ribbon
6741‑0078 – Shan You Counselling Centre (Mandarin)
Fei Yue’s Online Counselling Service
1800‑2744‑788 – Tinkle Friend (For Primary School Kids)
How to pick a line?1. Check your comfort level – are you OK talking in Mandarin or only in English?2. Check the time of day; some lines are especially quick during mid‑night or early‑morning.3. Think about what you want – immediate referral, counselling or just a chat.Without fuss, these services will offer you a lifeline, a warm voice, and a chance to move from feeling isolated to feeling part of a community. You don’t have to go through that heaviness alone. Remember: the next step could be a phone call or a quick chat on a website and it might just change your whole day.
