Incident Overview

SINGAPORE – A heartbreaking incident unfolded on November 7 at Woodlands Waterfront Park, where rescuers recovered the body of a 60-year-old man after he fell overboard earlier that day. The man was reported missing around 10 a.m., prompting an immediate response from authorities.

Rescue Efforts

The police were alerted to a suspected drowning case, leading to a swift deployment of a Police Coast Guard patrol craft, along with vessels from the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and two marine firefighting and rescue boats from the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). These teams conducted extensive search efforts in the waters near the Woodlands jetty.

Details of the Incident

According to an MPA statement, the victim fell overboard while working on a flotsam retrieval craft—a vessel dedicated to clearing debris from the water's surface. Tragically, after hours of searching, SCDF paramedics pronounced the man dead at the scene when his body was recovered.

Investigation

Authorities reported that preliminary investigations have ruled out foul play, although thorough investigations are still ongoing. Witnesses at the scene noted the presence of a blue police tent, commonly used to cover bodies in public areas, indicating the seriousness of the situation.

Victim Identification

The victim has been identified as Mr. Jasmani Osman. Tragically, he leaves behind a grieving family, including two daughters and three sons. His son, who identified himself as Naz, shared that he learned of his father's accident through a message in the family group chat around noon.

Career and Community Impact

Mr. Jasmani had been employed since August 2024 to clear flotsam from Singapore’s waters—a crucial role to maintain navigation safety. His untimely passing highlights the risks faced by workers in marine environments.

Naval Alerts and Community Response

Rescue operations involved multiple vessels, with police and SCDF vehicles stationed near the park's entrance. MPA issued navigational broadcasts urging nearby vessels to remain vigilant for any signs of missing persons in the water.

Importance of Flotsam Retrieval

Flotsam, as defined by the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment's National Action Strategy on marine litter, includes various floating debris that poses hazards to navigation, emphasizing the importance of these retrieval efforts. The MPA operates nine flotsam clearance crafts daily, underscoring their commitment to maintaining safe and clean waterways.

Community Awareness

As the community mourns this tragic loss, it raises awareness about the dangers faced by those working at sea and the ongoing efforts needed to protect both lives and the environment.