A Singaporean man, Basnayake Keith Spencer, 37, was charged with voluntarily causing grievous hurt with a dangerous weapon on 11 November in the State Courts.
This charge follows an alleged stabbing incident involving Reverend Christopher Lee at St Joseph’s Church in Bukit Timah on 9 November.
Spencer, who appeared in court via video-link, faces the possibility of life imprisonment or a jail term of up to 15 years, along with potential caning and a fine if found guilty.
During the court session, Spencer was observed to remain expressionless.
The prosecution requested a three-week remand at Changi Prison’s Complex Medical Centre for psychiatric evaluation, which was granted.
His case is set to return to court on 2 December for further proceedings.
The incident reportedly occurred during an evening mass service.
Witness accounts indicate that Spencer approached Father Lee as the priest, aged 57, was distributing communion to congregants.
The alleged assailant used a folding knife to stab the priest before being disarmed and restrained by several members of the congregation.
Spencer, who was wearing a blood-stained white T-shirt, was subsequently arrested by police officers who arrived at the scene.
In recognition of the bravery displayed, two men from the congregation who intervened to disarm Spencer were honoured with the Singapore Police Force’s Public Spiritedness Award.
This award was presented during a media briefing at the Jurong Police Division Headquarters, highlighting their courage and prompt actions in a dangerous situation.
Following the attack, a video circulated online showing a slim man, later identified as Spencer, being led away from the church with his hands held behind his back.
In addition to the folding knife used in the attack, Spencer was reportedly found in possession of four other weapons, including a penknife and a mallet.
Authorities noted that Spencer is not a regular attendee at St Joseph’s Church.
According to police reports, Spencer is a Sinhalese Singaporean who had previously declared to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority that he identifies as Christian.
Police have stated there is no indication that the attack was motivated by religious or terroristic intent.
However, as a precautionary measure, police patrols at places of worship across Singapore were increased following the incident to ensure public safety and provide reassurance to congregants.
Minister for Home Affairs K Shanmugam also addressed the matter, affirming that the attack was not believed to be religiously motivated, and clarified that law enforcement is taking steps to maintain security at religious sites.
Police reiterated their commitment to safeguarding all members of the public, regardless of the specific circumstances surrounding this incident.
Father Lee, who remained conscious after the attack, was taken to the National University Hospital, where he is reportedly in stable condition. Medical staff continue to monitor his recovery.
The church community and broader public have expressed relief regarding his stable condition and have shown solidarity with him and the congregation of St Joseph’s Church.
