Victim assaulted twice in same location as second attacker ignored her plea for help

A shocking case in Singapore has drawn attention after a domestic helper was sexually assaulted twice within minutes in the same area, with one attacker now sentenced while the other remains on trial.

Victim Attacked Twice In Short Span
A 32-year-old Filipina domestic helper was sexually assaulted twice on the night of May 26, 2024, in an open field along Short Street in Singapore. After being allegedly raped by a tourist, the victim encountered another man shortly after and sought help, only to be assaulted again in a separate but nearby area.

Second Attacker Ignored Plea And Committed Assault
Instead of assisting the victim, 24-year-old Harvin Velanggany overpowered her in a dimly lit area near Rochor MRT station and raped her. Despite the victim explaining what had just happened, he ignored her and proceeded with the attack, later stealing cash from her belongings before leaving the scene.

Court Hands Down Jail And Caning Sentence
On April 13, Harvin was sentenced by the High Court to eight years’ jail and six strokes of the cane after pleading guilty to rape. A theft charge was also taken into consideration during sentencing. The identity of the victim remains protected under a gag order.

Incident Highlights Safety Concerns In Area
The assault took place in an open field between Rochor MRT structures, near Hotel Mi Rochor, Lasalle College of the Arts, and Sim Lim Square. While the area is active during the day, witnesses noted that it becomes quiet and poorly lit at night, particularly on Sundays, raising concerns about public safety in such spaces.

First Suspect Still Facing Court Proceedings
The first alleged attacker, a 34-year-old tourist from India, is still facing court proceedings. The victim later sought help from a nearby hotel staff member, who alerted the police. She received medical treatment, including preventive care, with costs covered by her employer.

The case has raised serious concerns about safety, vulnerability, and response in public spaces, particularly for individuals in distress. For Singaporeans, it underscores the importance of vigilance and public safety measures, while for Indonesians and others in the region, it highlights broader issues around urban safety and the protection of vulnerable individuals.

Sources: Straits Times (2026) , Mothership (2026)

Keywords: Singapore Assault Case, Rochor Rape Case, Domestic Helper Singapore, Harvin Velanggany Case, Singapore Crime News, Sexual Assault Court Case