Police investigating “unnatural death” of 14-year-boy

A 14-year-old boy was found dead at the foot of his Yishun block on the afternoon of 26 January 2016, hours after he was questioned by police officers regarding an alleged offence. The case has been classified as an “unnatural death”, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) said in a statement on 27 January.

The secondary school student had been taken to Ang Mo Kio Police Division from his school at around 11.30am on that day for questioning, regarding a report that was filed on Monday (25 Jan). It was a case of an alleged outrage of modesty.

His mother had told local media that her request to see her son at the police station had been denied.

"To keep investigations discreet, the officers went in plainclothes and in unmarked cars," SPF said. After speaking with school officials and looking at CCTV footage, police officers brought the boy into the principal’s office where he was spoken to, and was subsequently brought to the Ang Mo Kio Police Division that day.   

In this statement, the police stated that the boy’s mother was informed and updated throughout the various stages of the investigation. They added that the boy had also fully cooperated with the investigation and was bailed out by his mother at around 2.50pm that day.

“Throughout the engagement with the police, he did not exhibit any signs of being unduly distressed,” said the police.

Shin Min Daily reported that the parents said the boy went into his room after returning from the police station. At about 4.20pm, he was found at the foot of Block 316A, Yishun Avenue 9. He lived on the 14th floor.

SPF said investigations into the case have not been completed. A Coroner’s Inquiry will be held upon the conclusion of investigations, where all the relevant facts will be presented to the State Coroner, it said. "At the inquiry, the family will also be able to raise all questions that they may have," SPF added.

News Source: Today Online, Channel NewsAsia

What to do if you suspect your child may be suicidal?

Seek help immediately. Please take note of where you can get help for instances like this:

Child Guidance Clinic (CGH), Health Promotion Board (HPB)

Second Hospital Avenue, #03-01, Singapore 168937

Tel: 6389 2200

Email: [email protected]

Sunrise Wing, CGH

Call these hotlines for help:

• Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) – 1800-221-4444
• National Family Service Centre – 1800-838-0100
• Singapore Association for Mental Health – 1800-283-7019
• Care Corner Mandarin Counselling Centre – 1800-353-5800
• Touchline (Touch Youth Service) – 1800-377-2252
• Tinkle Friend: Children – 1800-274-4788 on weekdays

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