A 25-year-old Singaporean man who posed as a teenager online to approach underage girls has been sentenced to 11 years’ imprisonment and 10 strokes of the cane.
The offender, whose identity cannot be disclosed due to gag orders protecting the victims, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including statutory rape, sexual grooming of a minor and sexual penetration of a minor. Fourteen additional charges were taken into consideration during sentencing.
Deception through online platforms
The court heard that in August 2023, the offender matched with a 13-year-old girl through a Telegram bot. Despite knowing her age, he falsely claimed in his profile that he was 15. When questioned about appearing older, he maintained the lie.
He later met the girl in person and continued to misrepresent his age. The prosecution stated that the victim would not have consented to any interaction had she known his true age.
Over several months, he maintained contact with the minor and engaged in repeated inappropriate conduct. In early 2024, the girl discovered a medical document indicating that he was in his early twenties, revealing the deception.
Second victim identified
While still in contact with the first victim, the offender began communicating with another girl who was 12 at the time. He again falsified his age, claiming to be a teenager. He initiated inappropriate conversations and attempted to arrange a meeting.
The case came to light after the second girl’s form teacher discovered messages during a phone check and informed her guardians, who lodged a police report. Months later, the first victim’s family also filed a complaint after discovering explicit messages.
The offender was arrested and remanded.
Court emphasises deterrence
Prosecutors highlighted his deliberate deception and prior convictions involving minors. The court noted the vulnerability of children online and the need for strong deterrence.
Under Singapore law, offences involving sexual exploitation of minors carry severe penalties, including imprisonment and caning.
Authorities have reiterated the importance of parental supervision, digital awareness and reporting suspicious online behaviour to prevent similar crimes.