9-2-2024 (SINGAPORE) A driver involved in a fatal hit-and-run accident on the Bukit Timah Expressway (BKE) fled to Malaysia after the incident, leaving a 22-year-old motorcyclist dead. The driver, identified as Pua Yui Loon, has been charged with five offenses related to the incident.
The tragic accident occurred earlier this week when Joshua Chiam Chee Wai, the 22-year-old motorcyclist, was involved in a collision on the BKE. Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries, while his girlfriend, Siti Noor Diyana Abdul Rahim, who was riding pillion, sustained serious injuries.
Immediately after the accident, Pua Yui Loon, aged 27, fled to Malaysia, evading responsibility. He did not stop to provide assistance to the injured couple or report the incident to the police within the required timeframe.
Authorities launched a search for the driver, and with the help of ground inquiries, witnesses, and camera footage provided by the Land Transport Authority (LTA), Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA), and the police, Pua’s identity and vehicle registration number were confirmed.
On February 7, Pua attempted to reenter Singapore through the Woodlands Checkpoint but was apprehended by the police and immigration officers. He was subsequently arrested.
Pua appeared in court on February 9, where he faced charges for five offenses related to the hit-and-run incident. These charges include dangerous driving causing death and grievous hurt, as well as failing to stop after the accident, report it within 24 hours, or provide assistance to the injured.
During the court hearing, Pua, attending via video-link, claimed that he was driving straight and was uncertain whether the collision occurred with the motorcycle or if the motorcycle crashed into his vehicle. He expressed that he had checked his bumper upon returning and found no damage, implying that he was unaware of the collision and did not intentionally avoid helping.
Pua has been remanded for a week to facilitate a scene visit and the retrieval of his vehicle from Malaysia. The prosecution has stated that they are coordinating with Malaysian authorities to recover the car.
If found guilty of dangerous driving causing death, Pua could face a prison sentence ranging from two to eight years. Additionally, he might be disqualified from driving all classes of vehicles. If convicted of dangerous driving causing grievous hurt, he could receive a prison sentence of one to five years and a potential driving ban. For the offenses related to failing to stop after an accident, failing to report it within 24 hours, and failing to assist the injured, Pua could face a fine of up to S$1,000, a jail sentence of up to three months, or both for each offense.
