Victim’s testimony, friends’ accounts, and Koh’s police statements to be key in trial
A 49-year-old renovation contractor, Koh Lee Hwa, is standing trial in Singapore’s High Court for allegedly raping a woman in her flat after she hired him to repair faulty lights in August 2021. The case has drawn attention for its disturbing details and the prosecution’s reliance on both witness accounts and Koh’s own statements.
Repair Job Turns Into Nightmare
The victim, whose identity is protected, first engaged Koh in 2015 for renovation works and occasionally contacted him for minor repairs. On August 21, 2021, she reached out via WhatsApp to fix a faulty toilet light and kitchen switch. Koh quoted S$430 for the job and collected a S$200 deposit.
On August 23, Koh returned to complete the repairs. While working on the switchboard, he allegedly hugged the victim without her consent. Shocked, she retreated to her bedroom and messaged friends about the incident, expressing fear.
Alleged Assault In The Bedroom
Minutes later, Koh asked the woman to check the switches in her bedroom. When she exited the bedroom toilet, he allegedly pushed her against a dressing table, hugged her again, and ignored her pleas to stop. The prosecution said he then pushed her onto the bed, undressed her, and raped her despite her resistance, including biting his shoulder.
Victim’s Immediate Actions
After Koh left, the woman texted her friends that she had been raped. They rushed to her flat, found her in shock, and drove her to KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital. There, she was referred to the police and lodged a report at around 4:20 pm. Koh was arrested later that evening at 7:55 pm.
Prosecution’s Evidence
Prosecutors plan to call 26 witnesses, including three of the victim’s friends who can attest to her distressed state. They will also seek to admit Koh’s police statements, in which he admitted to performing sexual acts on her.
Defense And Trial Progress
Koh faces one count of rape, one count of sexual assault by penetration, and two counts of outrage of modesty. He is defended by lawyer Gino Hardial Singh. The trial, which began on July 29, continues with testimonies from the victim, forensic experts, and law enforcement officers.
As the trial unfolds, the testimonies and evidence will be crucial in determining the outcome. The case also raises awareness about personal safety during home services and reinforces Singapore’s strict stance against sexual crimes.
Sources: The Straits Times (2025) , Motheship (2025)
Keywords: Singapore Rape Case, Contractor Sexual Assault, High Court Trial, Victim Testimony, Koh Lee Hwa
