The Incident

In a harrowing incident that unfolded in Singapore, a 28-year-old man, Yeo Zhuo Ping, has been found guilty of attempting to rape a Thai disco singer and subjecting her to attempted sexual assault. The unsettling events transpired on August 7, 2018, after a night of entertainment at the Pixie Bar in Concorde Shopping Centre.

Events Leading Up to the Assault

The victim, a 31-year-old singer, began her shift that evening, earning her income through "garlands"—items purchased by customers as a form of interaction. During her shift, Yeo, who was at the bar with a friend, bought a garland for her and enjoyed her company while she consumed roughly four to five beers.

The Assault

As the night came to a close around 3 AM, Yeo persuaded the victim to join him for supper. However, she would ultimately decide to head home due to an upcoming flight to Bangkok. Accepted his offer for a ride home, the two arrived at a multi-storey car park at Block 125A Kim Tian Road, where the horrifying events transpired.

Once at the location, Yeo’s intentions turned violent as he pulled her towards a staircase landing; he hugged and kissed her against her will. When the victim attempted to escape, he forcefully pushed her into a small room and made two attempts to rape her, also trying to coerce her into performing a sexual act.

Victim's Courage and Reporting

The victim bravely resisted his advances and begged him to stop. Eventually, Yeo fled the scene, but police CCTV footage later captured him crawling away in a distressed state. The victim, despite her traumatic experience, reported the incident to the police before departing for Bangkok the same day.

Medical Examination and Trial

Upon her return four days later, she underwent a medical examination that confirmed injuries consistent with sexual assault, including bruises and abrasions. The grave nature of Yeo's actions led Deputy Public Prosecutor Christina Koh to highlight his total lack of remorse during the sentencing submissions on November 18.

Defensive Claims of the Perpetrator

Throughout the trial, Yeo even attempted to deflect blame, suggesting that the victim had fabricated the claims to stay in Singapore. His defense lawyer controversially questioned the victim’s profession, insinuating that her role as a disco singer implied consent to inappropriate advances. DPP Koh firmly rebutted these claims, emphasizing the victim's right to a safe workplace.

Court's Decision and Community Impact

District Judge James Elisha Lee dismissed Yeo's accusations against the police and the victim, stating that medical evidence did not support his claims of injury or incapacity during the incident. Furthermore, while out on bail, Yeo committed additional offenses of drink-driving and dangerous driving, further showcasing his reckless behavior.

Conclusion

This case shines a glaring light on issues surrounding consent and the treatment of women in the entertainment industry. It serves as a stark reminder of the unyielding fight against sexual violence and the importance of supporting victims in their pursuit of justice. Yeo is set to return to court for sentencing on December 6, with the community closely watching for the outcome.