Civilian injured by gunshot near SAF live-firing range; investigations ongoing
A man was shot while cycling near an SAF live-firing range on 15 June 2025. He underwent surgery and is stable. MINDEF has suspended live-firing at Nee Soon 500m Range as investigations continue.
- A man was injured by a gunshot on 15 June 2025 while cycling near the SAF Nee Soon 500m Range.
- He remains stable after surgery; a bullet slug was found in his lower back.
- MINDEF has suspended live-firing and reminded the public that entry into firing zones is prohibited under the Military Manoeuvres Act.
A man suffered a gunshot wound on 15 June 2025 while cycling in a forested area near a Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) live-firing range.
The police were alerted at around 11.55 p.m. by the National University Hospital (NUH), where the man was admitted with an injury to his lower back. Doctors found a bullet slug lodged in his body, and he later underwent surgery. He remains in stable condition.
The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) confirmed that the individual had entered a gazetted SAF live-firing area located between Upper Seletar and Upper Peirce reservoirs. At the time, a live-firing exercise was underway at the Nee Soon 500m Range, about 2.3 kilometres from the spot where the man was found.
As a precaution, MINDEF has suspended all live-firing activities at the range pending the outcome of investigations. Both MINDEF and SAF are working closely with the police to establish the circumstances leading to the incident.
Officials stressed that unauthorised entry into designated live-firing zones is strictly prohibited under the Military Manoeuvres Act. These areas are gazetted and marked due to safety risks associated with military training and weapons discharge.
The case has raised concerns about public access to forested areas adjacent to live-firing sites. While most of these zones are fenced or signposted, some stretches of land remain accessible through informal trails, which can pose dangers to hikers and cyclists unfamiliar with military training schedules.
Authorities have not disclosed how the man gained entry into the restricted area or whether he was aware of the ongoing exercise. Investigations will determine whether additional safety measures are required to prevent similar incidents.
The SAF conducts regular live-firing exercises across several training areas in Singapore, with notices usually posted in advance to warn the public. Despite these measures, trespassing has occasionally occurred, prompting repeated reminders about the risks.
The police, MINDEF, and SAF are continuing their joint investigation. No timeline has yet been provided for the resumption of live-firing at Nee Soon 500m Range.
