Post by : Shakul

A Singaporean man has admitted in court to posting a fake bomb threat on social media that triggered a major security response at Changi Airport and caused significant delays to multiple international flights. The incident has once again highlighted the serious consequences of making false threats involving aviation security.

The accused, 20-year-old Rykes Tan Zhi Kai, pleaded guilty to communicating false information regarding a harmful act. The case stems from an Instagram Story posted in June 2025, where he uploaded a photograph of himself alongside a Scoot aircraft and included a message suggesting that he was about to bomb the plane. Authorities later determined that the statement was intended as a joke.

Police received an anonymous report shortly after the post appeared online. Given the potential security implications, airport authorities immediately launched precautionary measures and identified all relevant Scoot Boeing Dreamliner flights scheduled for departure during the affected period.

As a result, three international flights underwent extensive security screening before being cleared for departure. The additional checks delayed services to Tianjin, Qingdao, and Athens by more than an hour, disrupting travel schedules for hundreds of passengers and affecting airline operations.

Investigators revealed that Tan had already boarded a separate Scoot flight bound for Taipei when the report was received. He was subsequently arrested several days later upon his return to Singapore. Authorities emphasized that all threats involving aircraft are treated with the highest level of seriousness regardless of intent.

Court proceedings heard that the delays caused operational losses to the airline and required the deployment of additional security resources. Tan later compensated the airline for the financial impact resulting from the incident, though legal proceedings against him continue.

Prosecutors argued that strong deterrence is necessary because airports represent critical national infrastructure and public safety concerns. The court has ordered reports to assess the defendant's suitability for probation and reformative training before determining an appropriate sentence. Under Singaporean law, the offence carries a maximum penalty of seven years' imprisonment, a substantial fine, or both.

#Singapore News #Crime #Security #airport #Safety