Cyclist Injured in Shock Incident

In a shocking turn of events, a 42-year-old man was struck by a stray bullet while cycling through a protected forest area in Singapore, leading to an urgent hospital visit on June 15. The incident highlights safety concerns in areas earmarked for military activities.

Details of the Incident

According to reports from the Ministry of Defence (Mindef), the man suffered a gunshot wound to his left lower back during a cycling outing with friends at the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. This area, spanning over 2,000 hectares, is known for its lush greenery but is also a designated zone for Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) live-firing exercises.

A Close Call

The bullet, which left him with a serious but non-life-threatening injury, was removed during surgery, and the man is now in stable condition. His friends rushed him to the National University Hospital for immediate medical attention.

Ongoing Military Exercises

At the time of the incident, an SAF live-firing exercise was occurring approximately 2.3 kilometers away at the Nee Soon Range. Mindef confirmed that all live-firing activities have since been suspended to investigate the circumstances surrounding this alarming incident.

Safety Measures Ignored?

Mindef emphasized that the public is prohibited from entering gazetted areas where military exercises are conducted to ensure safety. Warning signs are posted throughout the nature reserve to deter unauthorized access.

An Investigation Underway

Authorities are actively investigating the incident, though preliminary reports suggest there was no foul play involved. The police and SAF are working together to ensure such a life-threatening incident does not occur again.

A Reminder for Safety in Nature

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers in areas shared by recreational activities and military operations. The Central Catchment Nature Reserve, while a haven for nature lovers, must be approached with caution and respect for its regulations.