A 37-year-old man is due in court today for allegedly vandalizing a Virgin Mary statue at a church in Hougang last week.
Police told reporters that the incident took place late on the morning of Nov. 12 with the suspect arrested two days ago. A photo of the defaced statue showed what appeared to be marbles stuck into its eyes and white paint splashed across its face.
Police added that they had requested a court order to remand the man at the Institute of Mental Health.
The suspect is said to be charged with criminal trespass and defiling a place of worship with the intent to insult religion. He faces up to three months in jail and a S$1,500 fine as well as up to five years’ jail and a fine for the respective charges.
Located along Upper Serangoon Road, the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary said Tuesday that it had restored the statue and shared photos of the cleaned up figure.
“Praise the Lord! We have restored our Lady’s statue! Many have heard about Our Lady’s statue, and we have received many well-wishes and enquiries. We would like to thank everyone for your prayers and considerations,” it said.
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