St Joseph’s Church in Upper Bukit Timah was the focus of a police investigation this morning, prompting an evacuation of those gathered for mass. Police and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) vehicles were observed at the church compound shortly after 10:00 am.
Investigation at St Joseph’s Church
Upon arrival at the scene, authorities directed members of the public away from the entrance with the assistance of church wardens. An elderly couple, regular attendees, were waiting to retrieve their vehicle, having arrived for a 7:30 am mass but being asked to leave before the service began.
Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, who represents the Holland-Bukit Timah GRC ward where the church is located, arrived at the church compound at 10:47 am and departed around 11:20 am without addressing the media.
Police officers were seen searching the perimeter of the church and a nearby drain around 10:50 am. An explosive ordnance disposal vehicle subsequently left the compound around 11:00 am.
This incident follows two previous events at the same church in late 2023. In November, a man was charged with stabbing Catholic priest Christopher Lee in the mouth. A month later, another man was found with a folding knife on the premises and was assisting police with their investigation.
It is possible that authorities are treating these incidents as connected, though this has not been stated. Further investigation could reveal the cause of today’s evacuation and whether it is related to the previous events. A possible next step is a thorough review of security protocols at the church.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the evacuation of St Joseph’s Church?
Police vehicles and an SCDF vehicle were seen at the church compound shortly after 10:00 am, and members of the public were directed away from the entrance. The reason for the evacuation has not been publicly stated.
Was anyone injured during today’s incident?
The source does not contain any information regarding injuries.
What was the role of Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan?
Dr. Balakrishnan, as the Holland-Bukit Timah GRC MP, was observed arriving at and departing from the church compound. He did not speak to the media.
What impact might these repeated incidents have on the local community and their sense of security?
