The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) has reiterated that all safety measures were strictly followed during a live-firing activity at the Nee Soon 500m Range on 15 June 2025, after a member of the public was injured within a restricted zone.
According to an updated statement by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) on 23 June 2025, the injured individual, a 42-year-old man, had entered a gazetted SAF live-firing area in the Central Catchment Nature Reserve during a scheduled training exercise.
The SAF confirmed that the live-firing was conducted 2.3 km away from the site of the incident, with training involving general-purpose machine guns and sniper rifles. The Nee Soon 500m Range is designed to meet international range safety standards.
MINDEF stated that all relevant training directives, safety protocols, and control measures were adhered to. Weapons, ammunition, shooting positions, and target placements were compliant with SAF’s established guidelines.
The range’s safety design includes a stop butt and a restricted buffer zone intended to mitigate risks such as ammunition ricochet. These features were validated through simulations and field trials to ensure public safety beyond the zone.
Public parks and recreational trails outside the restricted boundary are not affected by these live-firing operations. Safety signs and warning notices were placed at multiple access points to deter unauthorised entry.
The police have confirmed that the cyclist is under investigation for wilful trespass under the Military Manoeuvres Act. Investigations are ongoing. The act prohibits unauthorised entry into military training zones and carries a maximum fine of S$1,000.
The incident occurred on 15 June 2025, when the man was cycling with friends in a forested area between Upper Seletar and Upper Peirce Reservoirs. He was struck by a bullet and later brought to hospital, where a slug was removed from his lower back. He is reportedly in stable condition.
The SAF, in its statement, reaffirmed its commitment to safety and its cooperation with NParks to maintain public awareness of restricted areas. It urged the public to respect signage and not to enter gazetted zones.
“Live-firing areas are dangerous for unauthorised persons. The safety measures are in place not only for the troops but also for public protection,” the statement added.
The Nee Soon 500m Range, having been certified safe for use, resumed operations immediately. The next live-firing session is scheduled for 26 June 2025.
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