Introduction

In a shocking incident that has left many in Singapore reeling, a 27-year-old construction worker was sentenced to a decade behind bars for the brutal rape of a masseuse in a Geylang massage parlour.

Details of the Incident

Prodhan Sajib, a Bangladeshi national, was found guilty of the heinous crime that occurred on the morning of May 18, 2022, after he refused to leave the establishment despite not having money to pay for services.

Sequence of Events

The sequence of events paints a disturbing picture. After arriving at a construction site early that day, Sajib, who had left momentarily to buy groceries, approached the massage parlour where he encountered the 32-year-old victim, a Chinese national.

Upon entering, he expressed his desire for a massage but quickly indicated that he lacked sufficient cash. When the masseuse suggested he leave since he couldn't pay, a terrifying ordeal began.

The Assault

Sajib turned violent, locking the door behind him and tossing the victim onto a massage bed. He choked, slapped, and ultimately forced her to perform sexual acts against her will.

Witness to the victim's desperate struggle, Deputy Public Prosecutor Maximilian Chew highlighted the horror of the assault, noting how Sajib even used physical intimidation to silence her cries for help.

The Victim's Bravery

In a moment of sheer bravery, the victim attempted to escape, managing to grasp her mobile phone from the massage bed.

However, Sajib's relentless pursuit led to a physical tussle as he tried to snatch the phone away. Ultimately, she broke free and fled outside, where she summoned help.

Police Investigation and Arrest

The police were alerted two days later, and they arrested Sajib after identifying him via surveillance footage.

Disturbingly, while being held in custody, he revealed to a psychiatrist that he had been taking sex enhancement medication for several months prior to the assault, raising questions about the influence of such drugs on his actions.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

As a result of his guilty plea, Sajib was sentenced on November 11 to 10 years in prison and six strokes of the cane, a punishment that reflects the seriousness of the crime.

The judge considered additional charges of criminal trespass and a second count of rape as aggravating factors in his sentencing.

Impact on the Community

This harrowing case serves as a chilling reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by individuals working in the service industry and raises urgent discussions on safety measures within such establishments.

It also emphasizes the legal system's stance against sexual violence, aiming to send a clear message that such violent acts will not be tolerated in society.

Conclusion

As the victim begins her path to recovery, the community is left to grapple with the realities of violence and the importance of protective measures for vulnerable workers.