Hospital patient who tried to grab gun from auxiliary police officer gets jail

A man who attempted to grab a police officer's gun at Changi General Hospital was sentenced to 30 months in jail. Goh Chuan Chong, 42, pleaded guilty to attempting to unlawfully possess a firearm.

The incident occurred on August 4, 2024, after Goh had been admitted to the hospital. He repeatedly asked hospital staff for a nail clipper and became agitated when his requests were denied. Nurses called for assistance from auxiliary police officers stationed at the hospital.

“

needs help

When an armed officer approached Goh, who appeared docile, Goh suddenly reached for the officer's revolver. He failed to grab the weapon, and when questioned, he claimed he wanted to commit suicide because he did not get the nail clipper. The prosecution highlighted that Goh "needs help" and expressed hope he would continue receiving treatment. The court did not seek caning as part of his sentence, and mandatory minimum sentences do not apply to attempted offenses.

“

wanted to kill himself as he did not get the nail clipper he had asked for