SINGAPORE – Legal troubles are piling up for two individuals as their recent actions land them before the courts. From threats of violence to illegal crossings, these incidents reflect ongoing concerns regarding public safety and law enforcement.
The Case of Vernon Yang
On 22 October 2024, Vernon Yang Zhi Xian, 29, called the police and allegedly threatened to stab a car dealership salesperson and a company boss. This was after his car was repossessed by a finance company, and Yang claimed his valuables were still inside. He made another similar threat just 20 minutes later.
- Yang was arrested approximately three hours after the threats.
- No weapons were found during his arrest.
- His case was adjourned to 6 November 2024.
In court, he was charged with two counts of communicating false information on a harmful situation. Each charge carries a penalty of up to seven years in jail or a fine of up to $50,000.
Thanesh Murugan’s Illegal Crossing
In a separate case, 23-year-old Malaysian lorry driver Thanesh Murugan appeared in court on 25 October 2024. He is accused of aiding Chee Wai Yuen, 36, in leaving Singapore illegally by hiding him behind the driver’s seat of a lorry.
- This incident occurred on 5 April while travelling through Tuas Checkpoint.
- Chee was out on bail for separate charges related to a warehouse break-in.
- Thanesh’s case has been adjourned to 1 November 2024.
Chee is implicated in a larger conspiracy to steal vaping-related items valued at over $6 million, alongside other individuals who have been charged in connection with these thefts. Authorities continue to investigate the syndicate’s operations.
As both cases unfold, they highlight the crucial role of law enforcement in curbing criminal activities and ensuring public safety.