Four-Hour Standoff in Hougang After Man Locks Himself in Flat

A tense four-hour standoff unfolded in Hougang last week when a man locked himself inside his flat, prompting a significant police presence at the scene. The incident occurred on Monday evening (December 23) at Block 701, Hougang Avenue 2, and was reported by Shin Min Daily News.

Around 8pm, multiple police cars and tactical vehicles were seen arriving at the block, catching the attention of nearby residents. Housewife Wong, a witness, told Shin Min that the sight of the emergency response made her suspect a major incident had taken place.

Reports from the scene indicated that about 10 police officers, some in riot gear, gathered at the void deck, while Crisis Negotiation Unit officers were also on site attempting to communicate with the man inside the unit.

According to residents, the situation began when the middle-aged man locked himself in his flat, leading neighbours to alert authorities. After several hours of negotiation, the police confirmed the safety of the other residents, and the situation was resolved around 11:50pm when officers departed.

One neighbour described the man, who lives with his elderly mother, as someone who often speaks to himself and sometimes insults other residents. Another neighbour shared that the man has been known to use a water gun to spray around the block, inconveniencing others in the area.

Some residents of the block, particularly those living on higher floors, have expressed concerns about the man’s disruptive behaviour and are reportedly considering moving out due to the ongoing disturbances.