Singapore Arrests Indian-Origin Man Over Fake Bomb Incident at Church

In Singapore, a 26-year-old man of Indian descent has been detained for allegedly placing a fake bomb in a church, generating widespread panic and leading to the cancellation of all services for the day.

The incident occurred early on Sunday at St Joseph's Church, located in the Upper Bukit Timah residential district. Authorities named the suspect as Kokulananthan Mohan.

Police discovered the suspicious item around 7:11 am, which prompted church officials to halt all ongoing services to ensure congregant safety.

According to the police charge documents, the suspect had placed three cardboard tubes inside the church. Filled with small pebbles, these tubes featured red wires protruding from them and were secured with black and yellow tape, resembling a genuine explosive device.

Investigators believe the faux bomb was intended to instill fear among the community and create the illusion of a potential explosion. Authorities verified that the item was non-threatening and could not detonate.

Initial investigations indicate that Kokulananthan acted independently, with no connections to any religious or terrorist motives, according to Singapore Police.

Following his arrest, Kokulananthan appeared in court on Monday where a judge ordered a three-week mental health observation. He is scheduled to return to court on January 12.

During proceedings, the suspect mentioned that his unusual actions stemmed from sleep deprivation due to his night job, which he can discuss with medical professionals.

If convicted, he could face severe penalties—up to 10 years behind bars, hefty fines, or both—as per Singaporean law.

The fake bomb incident sparked fear among worshippers and has raised significant safety concerns. Authorities have urged the public that fake threats can induce panic and will be treated with utmost seriousness.