2 youths behind 'How to spread Wuhan' prank to be charged

Two youths may now have to pay the price for their ill-thought-out prank after the police arrested them over a case of public nuisance.

In February, the pair of 17-year-olds filmed a video in an NTUC FairPrice supermarket, where one of them took sips from drinks from the chilled beverage section and placed them back on the shelves.

The clip was posted on one of the youths' private Instagram account with the caption "How to spread Wuhan", referring to the coronavirus pandemic which first broke out in Wuhan, China.

It was later reposted on social media by his acquaintance, sparking an online furore.

Their actions caused public alarm and concerns, especially since the clip was circulated soon after Singapore raised its DORSCON status to Orange on Feb 7.

While the youths had made a public apology at the time, it was not enough to appease the public who slammed them for their insensible act and called for severe punishment.

Others expressed worries that the video would lead others to mimic the irresponsible stunt. 

[embed]https://www.facebook.com/thatsmyfairprice/posts/10157121684201409[/embed]

The police said today (April 8) that the pair will be charged in court tomorrow with the offence of public nuisance with common intention.

If found guilty, they face a jail term of up to three months, or a fine of up to $2,000, or both.

The police reiterated that they will not tolerate any actions that stoke undue public alarm, especially during this period of heightened sensitivity.

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lamminlee@asiaone.com