The teenagers had allegedly been part of an unlawful assembly on March 12 on a staircase landing at ITE College West. - Photo: Screengrab from Google Maps
SINGAPORE: Three teenagers linked to the alleged bullying of another teen in ITE College West were charged with rioting on Saturday (March 15).
Another three accomplices are being traced by the authorities, court systems show.
The group had allegedly been part of an unlawful assembly on March 12 on a staircase landing at ITE College West, and had reportedly taken part in an assault on the victim.
A 45-second video clip of the assault made its rounds on social media on the same day. In it, two teenagers are seen punching and kicking a victim who is squatting down. At least three others are seen watching the assault.
Court documents show the three teens who have been charged are two 16-year-olds and an 18-year-old. They each face one charge of rioting.
They cannot be named as they were aged 18 or below at the time of the offences.
Charge sheets said the three teenagers had punched and kicked the victim with the intention to cause hurt.
The prosecutors were granted a four-week adjournment to complete their investigations into the case. All three accused will return to court on April 11.
Those found guilty of rioting can be jailed up to seven years and caned.
Alice Seow, principal of ITE College West, told The Straits Times that the three students have been placed on suspension amid the court cases.
“ITE is aware of a video regarding an assault at ITE College West. We take a serious view of the matter and are committed to the safety and well-being of our students. The injured student has been discharged from hospital, and we are providing support to him and his family,” she added.
In February, another video of an alleged bullying incident was circulated online.
A group of Montfort Secondary School students were disciplined after they were found to be involved in the incident.
A police report has been made, and police investigations are ongoing. - The Straits Times/ANN
