SINGAPORE, July 17 — A youth is assisting police investigations after two fires broke out at a Housing Board block in Bukit Panjang on Tuesday, with a local MP saying it was the third such incident reported at the block in two months.
The Straits Times reported that police and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) were alerted to the fires at Block 501 Jelapang Road at about 8.10pm on July 15.
The first fire, at a common corridor on the 10th floor, involved a personal mobility aid and was extinguished by SCDF using a water jet.
A second fire on the fourth floor, involving a bicycle cover, was put out by members of the public using a dry powder fire extinguisher.
Three people were assessed for smoke inhalation but declined hospital treatment.
According to the report, SCDF said preliminary findings indicated the fires were deliberately set, while police identified a male youth as a suspect for mischief by fire. Investigations are ongoing.
Holland-Bukit Timah GRC MP Edward Chia said there had been three reported fire incidents at the block over the past two months.
In a social media post, Chia said residents had expressed concern over possible mischief or foul play, adding that police were investigating all cases.
He said grassroots leaders would step up Citizens On Patrol activities, while police patrols in the area would be increased until investigations are completed.
Chia also praised residents who helped put out the fires and prevented them from spreading further, urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
