A 24-year‑old Singaporean national serviceman was sentenced on Tuesday to more than 12 years in prison and three strokes of the cane after being convicted of raping a 13‑year‑old girl. The court also noted his earlier assault on a deaf and mute girl, highlighting a pattern of sexual violence.
The offences occurred while the serviceman’s pregnant wife was away from their flat, according to police statements. He was charged with aggravated rape and sexual assault, offences that carry mandatory caning under Singapore law.
Justice K. S. Lee of the High Court applied the Penal Code’s sentencing guidelines, noting the aggravating factors of the victim’s age, the offender’s breach of trust as a serviceman, and the prior assault. The judge ordered a total of 12 years and 6 months behind bars, plus three strokes of the cane, the maximum allowed for a single conviction.
The Ministry of Home Affairs reiterated that Singapore will not tolerate sexual crimes and that caning remains a lawful deterrent for serious offences. Victim‑support groups welcomed the verdict but urged continued services for the survivors.
Legal analysts said the sentence aligns with precedent in similar cases, reinforcing the city‑state’s zero‑tolerance stance. The defendant retains the right to appeal the decision within 14 days.
The case underscores ongoing concerns about sexual violence against minors and the need for vigilant protection measures in residential settings.