A Trust Shattered: The Unthinkable Crime

In a disturbing case that has rocked Singapore, a 66-year-old religious council member abused the trust of a young boy during a sleepover intended for innocent sporting activities. The man had offered to take the 12-year-old son of a friend out for outdoor fun, even suggesting the boy stay at his home for convenience.

A Sinister Motive Uncovered

Originally, the boy's father suggested his daughter join, but the offender, citing his religious beliefs, insisted that no female could stay—setting a stage for a horrifying breach of trust. The victim later revealed that he was molested and assaulted during the stay, even filmed during some of the acts.

The Dark Revelation

After the sleepover in March 2022, the boy bravely told his father he had been "raped". This led to the arrest of the suspect, exposing a web of manipulation cloaked in piety.

Justice Served, but at What Cost?

On September 16, 2023, the offender was sentenced to 13 years and 3 months in jail, with part of the term—9 months—substituted for caning due to his age. He pled guilty to multiple charges, including molestation and producing child abuse material, with additional charges considered during sentencing.

A Pattern of Deceit

The harrowing account detailed how the offender ingratiated himself with the boy and his family, offering to teach sports and even suggesting trips abroad—actions that played on their trust. In June 2023, during yet another stay, the offender assaulted the boy after he had fallen asleep.

Frozen in Fear

Waking in fear from the assault, the boy managed to text his father for help, leading to a dramatic rescue at dawn. His pleas revealed the depth of the betrayal he had suffered through the man he was taught to trust.

Uncovering the Devastating Evidence

Upon arrest, investigators discovered disturbing content on the offender’s devices, including child abuse material and recordings specifically targeting the victim. His chilling defense during questioning? He was merely 'copying' acts he had seen in pornography.

Call for Justice

Deputy Public Prosecutor Dhiraj G Chainani emphasized the man's duplicity, living as a pious figure while engaging in horrific acts of predation. He urged that the harshness of the crime be met with stern consequences, echoing the sentiments that innocence had been grotesquely violated and trust betrayed.