Singapore: French student risks jail for licking straw in vending machine prank

A prank video posted online could lead to severe consequences for a French student in Singapore, who now faces potential jail time. The 19-year-old is accused of licking a straw, then returning it to a drink dispenser at a shopping mall.

He allegedly shared a video of the act on his Instagram account. Local broadcaster Channel News Asia reported that the student faces charges of property damage and public nuisance. If convicted, he could receive over two years in prison, a fine, or both.

The incident occurred in March at the Goldhill Centre. The operator of the vending machine reported that all 500 straws had to be replaced due to the contamination, resulting in a loss of approximately 3.30 euros. The court case was adjourned as prosecutors seek clarification from immigration authorities on whether the student's residency permit would be revoked if convicted, which could influence sentencing.