Incident involving drug-influenced man deemed an unfortunate misadventure.
SINGAPORE – A coroner’s inquiry has concluded that there was no foul play in the death of Ng Eng Kui, a 64-year-old man who was fatally shot by police at Block 33 Bendemeer Road on 23 March 2022. The incident occurred after Ng, under the influence of drugs, brandished a kitchen knife and advanced on four police officers despite multiple warnings.
The officers, unable to subdue Ng with three Taser shots, faced him in a narrow corridor outside his home. Assessing the threat as imminent, one officer discharged his firearm, striking Ng in the chest.
District Judge Kamala Ponnampalam ruled the shooting an unfortunate misadventure, stating there was no indication of errant action or foul play in the officer’s decision to fire. A court-imposed gag order prohibits naming the officers involved.
Footage from police and body-worn cameras, presented during the inquiry, showed Ng’s agitated and aggressive behavior during the confrontation. Despite commands to disarm, he remained non-compliant, leading to the escalation.
The case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in managing individuals posing immediate threats under volatile circumstances.
