Romanian FT hit n run case will due process of SG law catch up ?
George Yeo stresses due process in resolving hit-and-run case
By Saifulbahri Ismail, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 04 January 2010 1755 hrs
SINGAPORE: Foreign Affairs Minister George Yeo has stressed the need for due process in resolving the hit-and-run accident at Bukit Panjang last year, where Romanian diplomat Dr Silviu Ionescu remains a suspect.
Mr Yeo is the first Singapore minister to speak on the issue.
He said the Romanian embassy is helping the police, and investigations are ongoing.
Meanwhile, police said Wednesday it has established the identities of relevant parties, including witnesses.
Responding to media queries, the police said it is currently ascertaining the accuracy of all information given.
It said investigations must always be conducted with professional thoroughness and meticulous care to ensure the collection of all pertinent evidence.
While it understands the natural interest the public may have on this case, it stressed against making any premature or inappropriate comments or disclosures when a case is under active investigation.
It added that results of the investigation will be forwarded to the Attorney General's Chambers for consultation on the appropriate course of action to be taken.
On December 15, the embassy's car - a black Audi A6 - hit three pedestrians at about 3.10am.
One of the victims, 30-year-old Tong Kok Wai, suffered brain damage and died on Christmas day, while the other two suffered injuries.
Dr Ionescu had reported to the police that his vehicle was stolen.
The diplomat is currently in Romania.
"What happened was very bad, a man was killed, people were injured," said Mr Yeo. "The police are pursuing the matter very thoroughly but investigations are still ongoing and I should not be commenting on them. Let's take this one step at a time, there must be due process in such matters."
- CNA/yb
