29-7-2024 (SINGAPORE) A routine dog walk turned into a harrowing ordeal for a 46-year-old accountant when she was brutally assaulted by a group of personal mobility device (PMD) riders outside Skypark Residences in Sembawang Crescent. The incident, which occurred at approximately 4:05 pm on Saturday, 27th July, has left the community in shock and raised serious concerns about PMD usage in residential areas.
The victim, identified only by her surname Hu, recounted the terrifying experience, Ms Hu explained that she was simply following her usual practice of checking for oncoming PMDs before stepping onto the pavement with her dog. Upon noticing a PMD approaching at high speed, she called out to the rider, urging them to slow down – a precaution that members of the local dog owners’ group had been advocating due to safety concerns for both pets and pedestrians.
However, her well-intentioned warning was met with an unexpectedly violent response. The PMD rider allegedly became aggressive, bringing their vehicle to a halt before removing their shoes in what appeared to be preparation for a physical confrontation. The situation rapidly escalated as the rider reportedly launched an attack on Ms Hu.
The assault took a more sinister turn when two additional PMD riders arrived at the scene. In a disturbing display of mob mentality, the group, which eventually grew to five individuals, surrounded Ms Hu and subjected her to a vicious beating.
Following the attack, Ms Hu promptly alerted the authorities. Her report was corroborated by video footage captured by workers at a nearby construction site, providing crucial evidence for the ongoing investigation.
The video and photographic evidence revealed that the three PMDs involved were carrying at least five adults, with one vehicle also transporting a child. One of the women in the group was observed holding a young child during the incident, adding another layer of concern to the already troubling situation.
The Singapore Police Force confirmed that they had received a report of the incident. They stated that a 46-year-old woman had sustained minor injuries but declined hospital treatment. Four individuals, aged between 36 and 41, are currently under investigation for intentional wounding and intentional harassment.
