S'pore priest stabbed during mass, cops rule out terror attack

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has called on the public to remain calm and united following a knife attack on a priest at St Joseph’s Church in Bukit Timah yesterday.

Stating that violence has no place in the country, he urged everyone to support one another in the spirit of harmony and resilience.

“Very shocked and saddened to hear that a priest, Father Christopher Lee, was stabbed at St Joseph’s Church during mass. We pray for his full and speedy recovery.

“Most of all, we must uphold the safety and sanctity of our places of worship – places where people seek peace, solace and community,” he posted on social media.

Wong, who is also the finance minister, said it was fortunate that several members of the congregation helped disarm the assailant before the suspect could cause more harm.

“Many parishioners were badly shaken by what happened, and I hope that they heal from this traumatic event,” he added.

Suspect acted alone

In the incident, Lee (above), a parish priest at St Joseph’s Church, was attacked by a knife-wielding man while celebrating the 5.30pm mass.

The suspect, a 37-year-old Singaporean Sinhalese man with a history of serious hurt and drug-related offences, was disarmed by members of the congregation and subsequently arrested by police officers.

Based on preliminary investigations, police believe the suspect acted alone and that the attack was not an act of terrorism.

Lee is receiving treatment at the National University Hospital and is in stable condition.

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore urged the community to remain calm and avoid speculation on social media while the police conduct their investigations.

“The Church does not condone violence of any kind. We ask for prayers for the speedy recovery of Father Lee, for the assailant, and for all those present at mass, especially the children who may have been affected by the incident,” the statement said.

The Singapore Police Force said they received a call for assistance at around 6.30pm.

They said based on the preliminary investigations, the man is believed to have acted alone.

“Police do not suspect that this is an act of terrorism, for now,” the police said in a statement.

The public is urged to remain calm and refrain from speculation as investigations continue to ascertain the motive behind the incident, they added.

- Bernama

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