On New Year’s Day, the streets of Choa Chu Kang turned into a scene from a high-octane film as a van driver attempted to evade traffic police, resulting in a chaotic chase that left bystanders and officers stunned.
The Chase Unfolds
The drama began at approximately 5.20pm, when officers patrolling Old Choa Chu Kang signalled for a white van to stop. Instead of complying, the driver accelerated and took off—effectively kicking off a pursuit through the neighbourhood.
According to the Singapore Police Force (SPF), the van made several illegal U-turns and beat red lights, showcasing blatant disregard for traffic rules. Witness Sam, who observed the chase from a nearby area, described the van swerving dangerously, at one point reversing onto a zebra crossing.
A Dramatic Conclusion
The chase came to a dramatic climax at the junction of Choa Chu Kang Avenue 7 and Keat Hong Link. Eyewitness accounts suggest the van momentarily became airborne before crashing into a flight of stairs leading to the Keat Hong Axis HDB project.
Upon exiting the vehicle, the driver fled on foot but was apprehended shortly after. An ambulance was dispatched to the scene, and two individuals were taken to Ng Teng Fong General Hospital.
Injuries and Arrests
During the pursuit, a traffic police officer suffered injuries after colliding with the van. Thankfully, both the officer and the van driver were conscious when transported to the hospital. The officer is reported to be in stable condition.
The van driver, a 34-year-old man, now faces serious charges that include:
- Reckless driving causing hurt
- Driving without a valid licence
- Driving without valid insurance
- Failure to stop when ordered by police
- Use of a forged licence
- Possession of a knife and baton
- Suspected drug-related offences
The suspected drug-related offences have been referred to the Central Narcotics Bureau for further investigation, and preliminary inquiries are ongoing. It’s safe to say, this New Year’s escapade has left its mark on the community.