Singapore Church Scare: Fake Explosive Device Sparks Panic and Leads to Terror Charge

A fake explosive device found in a Singapore church led to panic on Sunday. Police charged a 26‑year‑old Indian‑origin Singaporean man for making a false terror threat. The object was found inside St Joseph’s Church in Upper Bukit Timah. All services were stopped at once. Police officers secured the area and launched a fast investigation.

Officials said the man placed the item on purpose. The object looked like an improvised explosive device. It caused fear among staff and churchgoers. The case is now being handled under Singapore’s strict anti-terror laws.

Fake Explosive Device Inside Church Raises Security Concerns

The charge was filed under the United Nations (Anti-terrorism Measures) Regulations. According to Channel News Asia, the man was arrested soon after police traced the object back to him. Police said he acted alone. They added there was no sign of a real terror link.

The item had three cardboard rolls. It also had stone pebbles and red wires. Black and yellow tape held the parts together. The design made it look like a bomb. Staff found it around 7 a.m. and alerted police right away.

Reuters reported that the item was self-made and posed no real danger. But the fear it spread was real. Church operations stopped at once. Police said such acts put pressure on emergency teams and can cause public alarm.

The suspect is now under a court order for a three‑week psychiatric check. He will return to court in January. During the hearing, he said the case was a misunderstanding. He told the judge he had not slept well because he worked night shifts. The judge noted that police observed unusual behaviour during the arrest. The court said the assessment was needed.

Why False Terror Threats Lead to Harsh Penalties in Singapore

Singapore has some of the toughest anti-terror laws in the region. False bomb scares are treated like real threats. Police say every alert triggers a full response. This uses major resources. It also creates fear in public spaces.

If the man is found guilty, he could face up to 10 years in jail. He may also face a fine of up to SGD 500,000. Officials stress that even fake devices can cause major disruption. They say fast action is needed every time to protect the public.

For churches and places of worship, safety remains a top priority. Many groups have increased watchfulness. Sunday’s events will likely push for even stronger checks. The case also shows how quickly false threats can impact faith communities.

Info at your fingertips-

Q1: What happened at the Singapore church?

A fake explosive device was found inside St Joseph’s Church. Staff alerted police and all services were stopped. A man was later charged for making a false terror threat.

Q2: Was the device real?

Police said the object was self-made. It had no real explosive ability. But it was designed to look like a bomb and caused fear.

Q3: What charge does the suspect face?

He faces a charge under the United Nations (Anti-terrorism Measures) Regulations. He could get up to 10 years in jail, a large fine, or both.

Q4: Why are false bomb threats treated so seriously?

They cause public panic and need a large emergency response. They also disrupt normal life and strain police resources.

Q5: Is there any sign of terrorism in this case?

Police said there is no evidence of a terror link. They also said the man acted alone.