COVID-19: Man Charged and Arrested After Allegedly Organising Illegal Street Race at Tuas

(Photo Credit: Straits Times)

30-year-old Yeo Jing Cheng, was charged on Thursday (April 9) under the Infectious Diseases Act which prohibits social gathering in any event in a public place with more than 10 persons.

Yeo is accused of organising an illegal street race in the early hours of 29 March 2020 along Tuas South Avenue 4. This is despite the social distancing measures introduced by the Multi-Ministry task-force that was took effect from 26 March 2020 at 2359 hours.

50 vehicles were involved, and 57 other motorists are also currently being investigated for participation.

Prior to the race, Yeo also apparently organised a “Street-Cars Meet Up” at East Coast park involving more than 10 people. This was approximately 90 minutes before the illegal race at Tuas.

Under the Road Traffic Act, first-time offenders of illegal street racing can face 6 months imprisonment and get fined up to S$2,000.

Subsequent offenders can be jailed up to a year and fines range between S$2,000 and S$3,000.

Yeo currently faces two counts of the same offence.

Moreover, if convicted under the Infectious Diseases Regulation, Yeo also faces six months imprisonment and fines of up to S$10,000.

In a statement by the Singapore Police Force, it warned that it takes a stern stance against anyone participating in illegal street races as it endangers the lives of other road users.

In addition, under Section 117(1) of the Road Traffic Act, Chapter 276, vehicles seized by the Police may be liable for forfeiture.

Yeo, who is currently unrepresented in court, intends to seek legal advice prior to his next hearing on 8 May 2020.

He is currently on a S$15,000 bail.

Read More: COVID-19: Are Workshops Still Open in Singapore?

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