SINGAPORE—A 30-year-old operationally ready national serviceman collapsed outside Maju Camp and tragically passed away shortly after, marking a sombre incident that has raised questions about the safety protocols in place during National Service.
Incident Details
The soldier had completed a National Service Fitness Improvement Training (NS FIT) session at Maju Fitness Conditioning Centre on Monday, 30 June 2024, from 6.50pm to 8pm. After reportedly feeling well enough to leave, he booked out of the camp at 8.11pm.
Shortly thereafter, a passer-by witnessed his collapse and promptly called for an ambulance. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) was alerted at 8.16pm, with an ambulance arriving at the scene by 8.25pm.
Emergency Response
- SCDF initiated resuscitation efforts on-site.
- The NSman was conveyed to National University Hospital (NUH), arriving at around 9pm.
- Despite emergency medical interventions, he was pronounced dead at 9.54pm.
Review of Safety Procedures
In light of this incident, the Ministry of Defence (Mindef) announced a precautionary safety pause on NS FIT training until 4 July 2024. This pause aims to review existing safety procedures and remind soldiers about the importance of safety practices.
“The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is rendering support to the family in this time of grief, and we extend our deepest condolences to them,” said Mindef.
Next Steps
Further investigations will be conducted to determine the precise cause of death, aiming to ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent such tragedies in the future.