Singapore Nurse Receives Jail and Caning for Hospital Molestation

A staff nurse at a Singapore hospital has been sentenced to jail and caning. Elipe Siva Nagu, a 34-year-old Indian national, pleaded guilty to molesting a male visitor. The incident occurred in June at Raffles Hospital.

According to The Straits Times, the assault happened under the guise of a disinfection procedure. The court heard that the offence caused the victim significant psychological distress. The nurse was suspended from duty following the report.

Details of the Singapore Nurse Molestation Case

The court was told the victim was visiting his grandfather at the hospital on June 18. At around 7:30 pm, the victim entered a patient’s toilet. Elipe looked inside while the man was using the facility.

The nurse then entered the washroom. He claimed he needed to “disinfect” the victim. Deputy Public Prosecutor Eugene Phua stated that Elipe used soap during the assault.

The startled victim was too shocked to react immediately. He later returned to his grandfather’s bedside. The case was officially reported to authorities on June 21.

Elipe was arrested two days later. On Friday, the court delivered its sentence. He received 14 months in jail and two strokes of the cane.

Legal and Professional Repercussions

The sentence reflects Singapore’s strict stance on such offences. Caning is a mandatory punishment for certain crimes in the city-state. The court considered the breach of trust involved.

The nurse was employed at a premium private hospital. His actions represent a serious violation of professional ethics. Raffles Hospital suspended him immediately after the offence came to light.

The victim suffered flashbacks following the incident. This psychological impact was detailed in court documents. The case has highlighted safety protocols within healthcare settings.

This case underscores the severe legal consequences for such criminal acts in Singapore. The sentencing reaffirms the judiciary’s commitment to upholding public safety and trust, especially within essential service environments like hospitals.

Thought you’d like to know

What was the nurse’s sentence?

Elipe Siva Nagu was sentenced to one year and two months in jail. He also received two strokes of the cane as part of his punishment.

How did the molestation occur?

The nurse entered a hospital washroom while the victim was inside. He then molested the man under the false pretext of needing to disinfect him.

What was the impact on the victim?

The court heard that the victim experienced flashbacks of the incident. The psychological distress was a key factor considered during the sentencing.

What happened to the nurse’s job?

He was suspended from his nursing duties soon after the offence was reported. His professional standing has been severely impacted by the conviction.

Why was the sentence so severe?

Singapore law mandates caning for specific crimes. The court also considered the breach of trust inherent in the nurse’s position at the hospital.

Trusted Sources: The Straits Times, Singapore Courts