SINGAPORE — A 24-year-old Malaysian man has been sentenced to eight years in prison and six strokes of the cane after raping and robbing a Filipina domestic worker in Singapore’s Rochor district.
The accused, Harvin Velanggany, pleaded guilty to one count of rape, with a charge of theft taken into consideration. The court handed down the sentence on Monday, following the prosecution’s recommendation of between seven and eight years’ imprisonment along with caning.
According to court documents, the incident took place on May 26, 2024, in an open field opposite Hotel Mi Rochor along Short Street. The victim, a 32-year-old Filipina domestic worker who cannot be identified due to a gag order, had been on her day off and had consumed alcohol earlier that day.
The court heard that prior to Velanggany’s attack, another man—identified as 34-year-old Indian national Anbazhagan Sivamurugan—allegedly sexually assaulted the victim. His case remains pending before the courts.
Velanggany, who had been searching for a place to sleep, came across the situation and approached the victim, who was described as heavily intoxicated. The victim reportedly told him that the first suspect had been forcing her to have sex.
After the first suspect left, Velanggany reassured the victim before proceeding to sexually assault her. Despite her attempts to resist, he overpowered her. Following the attack, he searched her belongings and took US$93 in cash, which he concealed. He later returned the money after being confronted.
The victim sought help from a nearby hotel staff member, who alerted the authorities. She was subsequently taken to KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, where medical examinations revealed minor injuries, including scratches and lacerations.
Velanggany was arrested two days later on May 28, 2024, and has remained in custody since.
In court, prosecutors described his actions as “opportunistic” and more severe given that he exploited the victim’s vulnerable state following an earlier alleged assault.
Under Singapore law, rape carries a maximum penalty of up to 20 years in prison, along with fines or caning.
Authorities have reiterated the importance of public vigilance and reporting incidents promptly, as investigations into the second suspect continue.
Source SCMP
