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Man, 38, arrested after he allegedly punched female barista at 18 Cross in Chinatown
The man was seen struggling and shouting.
Rafael See Toh
May 07, 2026, 12:24 PM
Photos by Shin Min Daily News & Google Maps
A 38-year-old man was arrested after he allegedly punched a female barista and attacked a security officer in a mall in Chinatown.
The incident took place on May 4 at around 1pm at 18 Cross, Shin Min Daily News reported.
Bystanders subdued man
Wang Yuan Fa (transliterated), a 48-year-old car salesman, told Shin Min that he was informed of the incident by a female colleague while explaining Certificate of Entitlement (COE) matters to a customer.
Wang said the man was initially seated inside the car showroom.
A barista from the cafe in the showroom approached the man to ask if he needed assistance.
The man allegedly suddenly threw two punches at her.
Bystanders intervened
By the time Wang got to the man, two or three bystanders were trying to stop the man.
Wang stepped in as well, and restrained the man by putting him in a headlock.
The man was described to be large-built and had put up a struggle, according to Wang.
As he feared the man might break free, Wang intervened and the man was subdued eventually.
Wang revealed that he had trained Muay Thai for 32 years and became a coach in 2017.
“I’ve had professional training, so I felt it was my responsibility and duty to help,” he said.
He apparently used a gentler restraining technique to avoid causing injury.
The group then handed him over to security officers.
Man put up struggle again
However, about 15 minutes later, the man put up a struggle again and attacked the security officers.
A passer-by said she saw the man put up a struggle while shouting.
Wang said the barista’s injuries appeared serious.
“Her face was visibly swollen and red,” he said.
Arrested
Police and an ambulance arrived shortly after.
The man was handcuffed by police officers, who also searched his backpack and belongings.
Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) personnel were also seen attending to an injured security officer.
In response to queries from Mothership, the police said a 42-year-old man and a 32-year-old female were conveyed conscious to the hospital.
A 38-year-old man was arrested for public nuisance and is assisting with investigations for voluntarily causing hurt.
Police investigations are ongoing.

