Police were called after a resident became aggressive during a meet and greet session: Tan Kiat How

SINGAPORE: Police were called to a meet-and-greet meeting in Bedok after a resident became aggressive and caused a disturbance, East Coast GRC MP Tan Kiat How said on Tuesday (Sept 17).

In a TikTok video posted on his verified account, Mr Tan addressed the incident and also called for mutual respect to ensure the sessions remain a safe space for residents and volunteers.

“It’s unfortunate that police had to be called to #MPS today when a resident became a little more aggressive,” read the caption of the video posted in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

Mr Tan, who represents Kampong Chai Chee ward, holds meet-and-greet sessions with the public on Monday evenings at Block 408 Bedok North Avenue 2.

“Sometimes you see cases like this at MPS, where one of the residents becomes more aggressive and can be a little more violent,” he said.

“I understand all cases, everyone is going through a difficult time. I hope that the residents who come to MPS will also respect our volunteers.”

Although those present at the meetings with residents always do their best to help residents, Mr Tan said “some things are beyond our capacity”.

“For example, we cannot write to a government agency and ask them to offer a job to someone… but we can facilitate and ensure that opportunities are available to our residents.”

Mr Tan did not provide further details about the incident.

CNA has contacted Mr Tan and the police for further information.

Dozens of comments were left on the TikTok post, with some expressing support for Mr Tan and others sympathising with the unnamed resident who caused the commotion.

One TikTok user said the person may be “desperate” to find a solution to their problem, while another urged residents to be patient as not all cases can be resolved immediately.

“We do our best. We also try to be honest and upfront about our limitations,” Mr Tan wrote in a response.

In response to a TikTok user who commented “I hope you can help him”, Mr Tan said he “managed to help his parents when he came last time”.

This is not the first time that a meeting with people has been marked by aggression.

Jurong GRC MP Tan Wu Meng was assaulted in 2018 by a 32-year-old man, leaving him with bruises on his arm and scrapes on his neck, according to TODAY.

The man allegedly rushed into the open area of ​​the MPS where Dr Tan was talking with another resident. He then started punching the MP with his fists, knocking Dr Tan to the ground.

The man was later arrested.