A recent court ruling has brought a measure of justice to a chilling case of domestic violence in Singapore. Cheng Guoyuan, 49, was sentenced to 19 years in prison, along with eight strokes of the cane, for the attempted murder of his wife, Han Hongli, aged 44. This brutal attack occurred on 14 April 2022 in a back lane just off Beach Road, and left Han with life-altering injuries.
Details of the Attack
Cheng’s actions were premeditated, rooted in his fear of Han revealing a wrongdoing he had committed against their daughter from her previous marriage. He was reportedly incensed by Han’s refusal to forgive him, believing she held power over his future. The attack was vicious; as he wielded a cleaver, he chased her down the street despite numerous bystanders trying to intervene by throwing objects in his direction.
- Han’s left hand was nearly severed, and she now suffers permanent disfigurement.
- Her left eye is blind, and she has impaired functioning in her arms.
- Cheng inflicted deep lacerations and cut his own wrists and neck during the incident.
Legal Journey and Sentence
After pleading guilty on 20 May 2024, Cheng faced a potential life sentence, but Justice Audrey Lim considered several factors before imposing a 19-year term. The prosecution had sought a harsher sentence although acknowledging Cheng’s attack fell short of the most grievous cases.
The judge cited the relentlessness of the attack, exacerbated by Cheng’s willingness to use a second cleaver after the first broke. Despite attempts by bystanders to protect Han, Cheng was undeterred until he was finally subdued by police who deployed a Taser.
Background of the Couple
Cheng and Han’s relationship soured after she discovered his misdeeds in 2021, marking the beginning of their tumultuous interactions. Han, who came to Singapore for work in 2016, had been supporting the family financially until the pandemic hampered her ability to work. Cheng’s feelings of inadequacy and desperation culminated in his heinous attack.
Despite his claims of love for Han, Cheng’s actions reveal a complex picture of rage and fear about his reputation, signalling a need for further mental health assessments during his imprisonment.
Community Response
The attack has sparked widespread outrage, with videos circulating rapidly online following the incident, highlighting the disturbing reality of domestic violence. It also raises questions about support systems in place for victims and the importance of community intervention during such emergencies.