Singapore – A 65-year-old Singaporean plumber scaled the wall of a landed home in Telok Kurau, slipped inside without permission, and attacked a domestic helper after she tried to end their relationship. The case has drawn attention as another troubling reminder of the risks that some helpers face far from home.
According to a news report, the man, identified as Chua Kok Poi, pleaded guilty on Sept 18 to five charges tied to the break-in and assault.
What Happened That Night
Chua worked as a plumber at a home in the Telok Kurau residential enclave, the same house where the helper was employed. The two had been in a romantic relationship, and she had even accepted his marriage proposal.
But things changed when the helper decided to move on. Her employment contract was ending, and she planned to return to her home country. She told Chua she wanted to end the relationship.
Unable to accept her decision, Chua climbed over a wall to enter the home between 10pm on March 21 and 5am on March 22. He then made his way to her bedroom.
Charges Filed in Court
Chua faced five charges in total. These included:
- Housebreaking
- Voluntarily causing hurt
- Theft
Court records state that he also took items belonging to the helper during the incident:
- Three mobile phones
- SGD 150 in cash
The Injuries
The assault left the helper hurt and shaken. Based on the charges, Chua:
- Pulled her hair
- Slammed her head against the floor
- Squeezed her chest
She suffered pain at the back of her head and reported a bruise on her scalp.
What the Court Heard
The court was told that Chua and the helper had been in a relationship, and that he had spent a considerable sum on her over time. His lawyer asked for leniency, saying Chua had returned all the stolen items and acted out of desperation while trying to save the relationship.
Chua was granted bail of SGD20,000, partly to allow him to arrange compensation for the victim’s medical costs. He is set to be sentenced on Oct 1.
For Filipino helpers building a life overseas, cases like this hit close to home. If you ever feel unsafe, reach out to your embassy, your agency, or the local authorities. You are never alone, and support is always within reach.