A suspicious item discovered at St Joseph’s Church in Bukit Timah on Sunday morning prompted the evacuation of churchgoers and staff, marking another unsettling event following an earlier stabbing incident involving Father Christopher Lee.
The Incident Details
The police received a call for assistance at approximately 7.10 am. Officers swiftly secured the area while conducting their operations. Around 9.15 am, the police issued a statement via Facebook, urging the public to avoid the vicinity and to comply with their instructions.
- Church Closure: The church announced its temporary closure and the cancellation of mass in a Facebook update at about 9 am.
- Apology from the Church: Father Lee expressed regret for the inconvenience caused, encouraging congregants to seek other venues for worship.
Historical Context
This incident follows a troubling event from November 2024, when Father Lee suffered an attack during evening mass, in which he was stabbed in the mouth, resulting in significant injury. The alleged assailant, Basnayake Keith Spencer, faces charges for the stabbing and for weapon possession.
The police indicated they did not suspect that the stabbing was an act of terrorism, nor did they find evidence to suggest it was motivated by religious sentiment. However, both incidents have raised concerns among the church community.
Community Response
Authorities continue to investigate the recent suspicious item found at the church. If you have any information regarding this incident, you’re urged to contact the police hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submit your details online. All information will be kept confidential.
As the situation develops, the church community and local residents remain vigilant, hoping for a swift resolution to these unsettling events.