Video of alleged bullying by Bukit View Secondary students circulates online, police investigate

SINGAPORE: A video showing a group of students allegedly bullying a fellow student has surfaced online, drawing significant attention and prompting a police investigation. The students, who appeared to be dressed in Bukit View Secondary School uniforms, were recorded taunting and assaulting a smaller student at the void deck of a Housing Board flat. The TikTok video, which went viral before being deleted, was posted on 15 September. It showed at least five students surrounding a boy with a backpack. The group was laughing and jeering at the victim before one student kicked him in the back, causing him to fall to the ground. The video garnered almost 600,000 views by 11 am on 16 September before its removal. Bukit View Secondary School’s principal Jaswant Singh told The Straits Times that the incident occurred in October 2023 outside the school premises and was not reported to the school at the time. Following the video's circulation, the school immediately checked on the victim, who did not report any injuries. Mr Singh emphasized the school's serious stance on such behaviour, stating that the students involved would be counseled and face appropriate disciplinary actions. The victim's parents have since lodged a police report. The police have confirmed that investigations are ongoing regarding the bullying incident.

Helplines

If you or someone you know is in need of support, the following helplines are available:

• Samaritans of Singapore Hotline: 1767
• Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
• Institute of Mental Health (24 hours): 6389-2222
• Tinkle Friend (for primary school-aged children): 1800-274-4788

You can discover a directory of global helplines on this page. If someone you are aware of is facing an imminent threat, please dial 24-hour emergency services.