Indonesian family’s holiday turns traumatic after son struck by stranger and threatened with knife
A family vacation in Singapore took a terrifying turn when a young Indonesian boy was violently attacked by a stranger at Arab Street. The incident has sparked concern over public safety in areas popular with tourists and locals alike.
Sudden Attack in Tourist District
On June 20, 2025, a peaceful afternoon quickly escalated into chaos outside the popular % Arabica café on Arab Street, Singapore. Winda, an Indonesian tourist from Jakarta, was sitting with her husband and two children, waiting for Friday prayers at the nearby Sultan Mosque. Without warning, a man struck their 5-year-old son on the head from behind using a wine bottle.
The child cried and vomited immediately following the assault, while Winda’s husband pushed the assailant away in a desperate attempt to protect the family. Quick-thinking café staff ushered them inside for safety. Shockingly, the attacker was later found to have a kitchen knife in his bag, which he allegedly attempted to retrieve after the assault.
Attempted Knife Incident and Arrest
Bystanders swiftly called emergency services while holding the man down. A video posted by @sgfollowsall on Instagram shows the man reaching into a pouch, suspected of trying to take out the knife. Several men restrained him and secured the weapon until police arrived. Authorities later identified the suspect as 26-year-old Chinese national Xu Chaoyu.
Xu was charged on June 21 with possessing an offensive weapon in a public space without lawful authority. He reportedly had a 32cm kitchen knife and a 30cm vegetable knife. Adding to the severity of the case, Xu is also suspected of overstaying his social visit pass by 49 days.
Family in Shock
Speaking to Mothership, Winda expressed her devastation: “A random person who has no reason to hate us can do something so horrible. I never would have imagined something this scary would happen in Singapore.”
The Indonesian embassy in Singapore has since reached out to the family, offering assistance. The child sustained a forehead injury, while the father was also hurt during the scuffle. The Singapore Civil Defence Force confirmed receiving a call at around 1:30 PM that day but stated ambulance assistance was ultimately not required.
Police Investigation and Public Response
The Singapore Police Force cordoned off the scene for investigation until 5 PM. Authorities are probing both the assault and Xu’s immigration status. The incident, which took place just two days before the family’s planned return to Indonesia, has led to renewed discussions on public safety, mental health awareness, and immigration enforcement in Singapore.
Community Support and Café Staff Response
Witnesses and staff at % Arabica were praised for their immediate intervention and care. Staff shielded the family and called authorities without delay. The swift response of the community likely prevented the situation from escalating further.
The violent attack on a young Indonesian tourist has deeply shaken public trust in the safety of Singapore’s tourist zones. While swift action by bystanders and police prevented further harm, the case highlights the ongoing need for vigilant security and tighter immigration enforcement. For Indonesians visiting Singapore, it’s a chilling reminder that vigilance remains essential even in perceived safe havens.
Sources: Mothership (2025) , Must Share News (2025)
Keywords: Wine Bottle Attack, Arab Street Singapore, Indonesian Tourist Family, Child Assault Singapore, Knife Possession, Overstaying Offense
