F1 track intruder released on $15k bond

The man who walked across the race track during the Formula One Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix was released on his own personal bond of $15,000 yesterday.

Yogvitam Pravin Dhokia's lawyer, Mr Shashi Nathan, who was recently engaged to act for the Briton, applied successfully for the 27-year-old's bail to be varied so that he could be released. Originally, his bailor had to be either a Singaporean, permanent resident or British High Commission consular officer.

Dhokia's parents were in court yesterday, and counsel asked for a pre-trial conference date, which is now fixed on Oct 16. The case was originally scheduled for Oct 6.

Dhokia had been in custody since his appearance in court last Tuesday as no one came forward to bail him out. Under the conditions of bail, Dhokia must surrender any travel documents and report to the investigation officer at Central Police Station daily.

He must also stay with his parents at a local hotel and inform the investigation officer about his movements at all times or at the officer's discretion.

Dhokia is accused of acting rashly to endanger the safety of the F1 drivers involved in the race near Turn 13 in Esplanade Drive at about 9pm on Sept 20 by crossing the track while the race was ongoing. If convicted, he could be jailed for up to six months and fined up to $2,500.

Singapore Grand Prix organisers are considering tighter security for next year's race, with higher fences and more marshals.

This article was first published on October 3, 2015.
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