SINGAPORE: A man accused of assaulting a 70-year-old Yakult delivery woman, who succumbed to her injuries, was denied bail on Friday (22 November) due to public safety concerns.
Lim Chuan Xun, 30, allegedly punched Madam Jasmine Au Sock Hua in the face at a Sengkang Central public housing block on 29 October at around 9pm.
Mdm Au was admitted to the intensive care unit at Sengkang General Hospital and passed away on 6 November.
As reported by state media CNA, during the bail hearing, the prosecutor highlighted the potential for Lim’s mental illness to relapse and cited his high risk of reoffending as grounds for keeping him in custody.
Although investigations no longer required his remand, the prosecutor requested no bail be offered, emphasising public safety.
Lim, who was not represented by a lawyer, pleaded with District Judge Eugene Teo, stating, “I’m a good guy. I hope I can be released.”
Lim said: “I hope the court won’t think that I was the murderer just because I was seen in the lift with the Yakult auntie.”
He claimed there was “no reason for him to punch anyone” and offered to cooperate with investigations if released.
The judge, however, denied his bail request, explaining the need for Lim to “stabilise in custody.”
Lim was advised to cooperate with officers during his remand.
Multiple Charges Against Lim
Lim faces six charges, including voluntarily causing grievous hurt, using profanity against the victim, and refusing to sign a police statement.
Additionally, he is accused of fighting with a man and committing a rash act by throwing the man’s phone into a basement.
Another charge pertains to insulting a police civilian officer during an emergency hotline call.
The court heard that investigations were ongoing, with prosecutors awaiting medical reports related to Mdm Au’s death.
Lim is expected to return to court on 6 December.
Potential Penalties
If convicted of causing grievous hurt, Lim faces up to 10 years in jail, along with fines or caning.
For using abusive language, the penalty is up to six months’ imprisonment or a fine of up to S$5,000, or both.
Other offences, including public fighting, rash acts, and refusal to sign a police statement, carry maximum penalties of up to one year’s jail, fines, or both.
Community and Family’s Grief
The victim was a well-known figure in her neighbourhood, delivering Yakult for 33 years while raising three children alone after her husband’s death in 1987.
A family member said, “We’ve lost our loved one to a ruthless assault. We hope justice is served and that such incidents won’t happen again, especially to neighbourhood delivery personnel.”
The victim was cremated on 10 November. She is remembered as a kind and inspiring individual whose life embodied resilience and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on her community.
