Khoo Teck Puat shooting: Suspect to be charged on Monday

SINGAPORE - The 24-year-old Singaporean man who snatched a police officer's revolver and fired shots from it will be charged in court on Monday at 2pm, said the Singapore Police Force in a statement.

On Sunday evening, the suspect - who was arrested for vehicle theft last Friday - complained of chest pains and was escorted by police officers to Khoo Teck Puat hospital to seek medical attention.

While inside one of the hospital's private examination rooms, the suspect attempted to escape but was stopped by one of the police officers. A struggled ensued during which the suspect snatched the police officer's revolver. Shots were fired from the 31-year-old officer's revolver.

The suspect was brought under control and is in police custody.

He sustained superficial injuries while the police officer suffered gunshot wounds to his left thumb and right foot.

The officer was conveyed to Tan Tock Seng Hospital and and since undergone surgery. He is currently in a stable condition.

The suspect will be charged with unlawful discharge of firearms, which carries the death penalty.

Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean weighed in on the incident on the sidelines of a grassroot event on Sunday. Mr Teo said the illegal use of firearms was a "serious offence" and police investigations are ongoing.

klim@sph.com.sg