SAF reiterates compliance with safety protocols after cyclist injured in live-firing zone

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) has reiterated that all safety measures were strictly adhered to during a live-firing exercise at the Nee Soon 500m Range on 15 June 2025.

The confirmation came after a 42-year-old cyclist was struck by a bullet while inside a restricted training area. The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) issued an updated statement on 23 June 2025 to address public concerns.

Incident details

The injured man had entered a gazetted SAF live-firing zone within the Central Catchment Nature Reserve, an area officially designated as off-limits during exercises.

The incident took place while the SAF was conducting scheduled training involving general-purpose machine guns and sniper rifles. The firing positions were located 2.3 km from where the cyclist was later found injured.

According to MINDEF, the Nee Soon 500m Range has been designed to meet international standards. Safety designs, including a stop butt and buffer zone, were incorporated to contain live ammunition.

Nature of injuries

The man was cycling with a group of friends between Upper Seletar and Upper Peirce Reservoirs when the incident occurred. He was struck in the lower back by a bullet.

He was transported to hospital, where doctors removed the slug. His condition has since stabilised. No other members of the public were injured.

Police investigation

The Singapore Police Force confirmed that the cyclist is under investigation for wilful trespass under the Military Manoeuvres Act.

The law prohibits entry into restricted military training zones without authorisation. Offenders may face fines of up to S$1,000. Investigations remain ongoing.

Safety measures reaffirmed

In its statement, MINDEF emphasised that all weapons, ammunition, shooting positions, and targets had been deployed in strict accordance with established guidelines.

Safety protocols were reviewed before training commenced. The range’s stop butt and restricted buffer zone were validated through field trials and simulations to ensure public safety outside the designated boundary.

Public trails, including hiking and cycling routes, remained unaffected by the live-firing.

Warning signage in place

Authorities added that multiple warning signs had been installed across access points leading into the gazetted zone.

These notices, together with existing fencing and physical markers, are intended to alert hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts to the dangers of entering live-firing areas.

The SAF urged members of the public to heed these warnings and avoid restricted areas.

“Live-firing areas are dangerous for unauthorised persons. The safety measures are in place not only for the troops but also for public protection,” MINDEF stated.

Range operations continue

The Nee Soon 500m Range has been certified as safe for use and resumed operations immediately after the incident.

The SAF confirmed that the next scheduled live-firing exercise will take place on 26 June 2025, with similar safety measures in place.

Public cooperation emphasised

In its updated communication, the SAF highlighted its ongoing cooperation with the National Parks Board (NParks) to raise public awareness about restricted zones within nature reserves.

Both agencies aim to ensure that recreational activities, such as hiking and cycling, remain safe for the public while respecting the boundaries of military training areas.

Background on Nee Soon 500m Range

The Nee Soon 500m Range is located within the Central Catchment Nature Reserve, Singapore’s largest green space. It has long been used for infantry training and weapons proficiency exercises.

The range’s design incorporates safety engineering measures common to modern military training grounds worldwide. These measures include controlled firing arcs, protective terrain barriers, and clearance zones.

International standards require such facilities to account for potential risks, including ammunition ricochet and overshoot.

Public safety and military readiness

The SAF emphasised that its live-firing activities are crucial for operational readiness. Soldiers undergo mandatory training on weapons handling and marksmanship, requiring controlled environments like the Nee Soon Range.

At the same time, the force acknowledged the need to maintain public trust. By adhering to safety protocols and working with civilian agencies, the SAF said it strives to balance training requirements with public safety.

Broader implications

The incident has raised questions about public compliance with restricted zones, particularly in areas where military training grounds overlap with popular recreational spaces.

While MINDEF stressed that signage was in place, the case highlights challenges in preventing unauthorised access in forested areas with multiple informal trails.

Ongoing investigations

Authorities are continuing to investigate both the circumstances of the cyclist’s entry and the precise trajectory of the bullet. The findings will determine whether any additional preventive measures are needed.

For now, MINDEF has reiterated that safety systems performed as intended and that no lapses in protocols were found.