24-9-2024 (SINGAPORE) A disturbing video circulating on social media platforms has prompted a police investigation into an alleged assault involving a student from Qihua Primary School in Woodlands, Singapore. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the community, marks the second such case to emerge in the span of a week, raising concerns about bullying in educational institutions.
The harrowing footage, lasting approximately four minutes, depicts a teenager clad in a black T-shirt and jeans repeatedly attacking a smaller boy wearing the Qihua Primary School uniform. The assault takes place in a stairwell, where the aggressor is seen cornering the victim, subjecting him to a barrage of punches, kicks, and violent throws to the ground.
Throughout the ordeal, the visibly distressed primary school pupil can be heard pleading, “Sorry, sorry, I won’t do it again,” while enduring relentless taunts from the assailant and possibly a third individual behind the camera. The aggressor’s intimidating behaviour escalates as he challenges the victim, asking, “You want to fight? You sure?”
While the exact date of the incident remains unclear, the Singapore Police Force has confirmed that a report has been lodged and investigations are currently underway. Authorities are treating the matter with utmost seriousness, given the violent nature of the assault and the age of the individuals involved.
This shocking incident follows closely on the heels of another violent episode involving a student from Bukit View Secondary School, which came to light just a week prior. In that case, a TikTok video showed a pupil being surrounded by at least five teenagers, taunted, and kicked to the ground.
The Ministry of Education (MOE) has reiterated its firm stance against all forms of bullying in response to these incidents. Statistics reveal that since 2013, reported bullying cases have remained relatively stable, with approximately two incidents per 1,000 primary students and five per 1,000 secondary students annually.
An MOE spokesperson emphasised the comprehensive approach taken by schools when addressing alleged bullying cases: “We conduct thorough investigations to understand the root causes of such behaviour. Appropriate disciplinary measures are implemented to ensure students comprehend the consequences of their hurtful actions and work towards restoring relationships with those affected.”
The ministry also highlighted the crucial role of counselling support in these situations, both for the perpetrators and the victims. Additionally, schools actively engage with parents to reinforce social and emotional skills taught in the classroom, establish clear expectations for student behaviour, and outline potential repercussions for unacceptable conduct.
