2-9-2024 (SINGAPORE) A shocking case of workplace voyeurism has come to light in Singapore, resulting in a seven-month jail sentence for a 51-year-old cleaner who secretly filmed his female colleagues in their changing room. The incident, which unfolded over 12 days in October 2023, serves as a stark reminder of the importance of privacy and trust in professional environments.
Sul Ahmad, the perpetrator, admitted to recording footage of his unsuspecting colleague on eight separate occasions without her consent. His actions were only discovered when the battery of his hidden camera, cleverly disguised as a pair of spectacles, began to run low. The blinking red light of the device caught the attention of one of his victims, leading to his eventual apprehension.
In a twist of irony, Sul’s own actions were captured by the very device he had planted to spy on others. A review of the footage clearly showed him placing the camera in the changing room, providing incontrovertible evidence of his guilt.
On 2 September, Sul appeared before the court and pleaded guilty to one charge of voyeurism. Two similar charges involving two other women were taken into consideration during the sentencing. District Judge Sharmila Sripathy-Shanaz presided over the case, delivering a stern rebuke along with the sentence.
“The invasion of the victim’s privacy is not minor,” Judge Sripathy-Shanaz stated, emphasising the severity of Sul’s actions. “The videos capture her in her undergarments and her face was clearly visible.” The judge further noted the premeditated nature of the crime, pointing out that Sul had deliberately purchased the recording device and strategically placed it to capture footage of his colleagues.
The prosecution, led by Deputy Public Prosecutor Delicia Tan, revealed that Sul viewed the illicit recordings on his mobile phone, retaining them for his personal gratification. The extent of his actions came to light on 27 October 2023, when one of the victims noticed a flashing red light emanating from a pair of spectacles strategically positioned in the changing room.
Upon closer inspection, the victim discovered a built-in camera within the frame of the glasses and promptly reported the matter to management. A subsequent review of the footage not only confirmed the filming of the victim but also captured Sul in the act of placing the device.
Realising his scheme had been uncovered when he found the glasses missing, Sul attempted to apologise to the victim via text messages later that day. However, his remorse came too late to prevent legal consequences.
The case has sent ripples through Singapore’s workforce, highlighting the need for increased vigilance and stronger measures to protect employee privacy. Workplace safety experts are calling for more comprehensive policies and regular checks to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Under Singapore law, those found guilty of voyeurism can face up to two years in jail and caning. Sul’s sentence of seven months’ imprisonment serves as a deterrent to potential offenders and a reminder of the serious legal consequences of such actions.
