Bukit Panjang HDB fires: Youth under probe

Investigations are ongoing.

Chinese-language news publication Lianhe Zaobao said that the walls and ceiling at the common corridor on the 10th floor were blackened by smoke, and there was a lingering burnt smell when it visited the area on July 16.

Holland-Bukit Timah GRC MP Edward Chia visited the affected residents on the night of July 16.

He said in a social media post later on the same day that there had been three reported fire incidents at Block 501 in the past two months, with the fires on July 15 the two most recent incidents.

No injuries were reported, and he said the residents were concerned about the possibility of mischief or foul play.

“During the investigations, we uncovered additional unreported incidents,” he wrote. “The police are thoroughly investigating all the cases.”

The MP added that the grassroots leaders would be stepping up Citizens On Patrol efforts and there would be more police patrols in the area until the investigations are concluded.

Chia said he was heartened to learn how neighbours helped one another and worked together to put out the fire before it could spread further.

“In the meantime, let us stay vigilant and continue to look out for one another,” he wrote. “Please report any suspicious activity to the police immediately.”