Police are searching for the next-of-kin of a recently deceased woman who resided in Bedok, but her partner of over 30 years is unable to claim her body as the couple were not officially married.
On April 29, police issued an appeal for the next-of-kin of an unidentified woman believed to be known as “Tan Ah May”. She resided at Block 556 Bedok North Street 3 and died on April 15.
When Shin Min Daily News visited the woman’s place of residence, a man named Mr Lu (transliteration) was found to be residing there. The 67-year-old said he had known and lived with the 68-year-old woman — whom he referred to as “Ah May” — for over 30 years.
He also revealed that Tan was born in Indonesia and arrived in Singapore many years ago without any known relatives. She made a living doing odd jobs, but avoided heavy work as she had a weak heart.
Mr Lu recounted chatting with Tan until about 2am on the day of her passing, and did not notice anything amiss.
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However, he found Tan, who was known to be an early riser, still lying in bed when he woke up in the morning.
“It was around 7am, and she still hadn’t woken up. I later realised she wasn’t responsive, so I quickly called the ambulance,” Mr Lu said.
In response to Stomp’s queries, an SCDF spokesperson said they were alerted to the incident about 7.20am. One person was conveyed to Changi General Hospital.
Unable to claim body as pair not married
As Mr Lu and Tan did not officially register their marriage, he is unable to claim her body and carry out funeral arrangements.
