A 24-year-old Malaysian man has been sentenced to eight years in prison and six strokes of the cane for the rape of a 32-year-old Filipina domestic helper who had been assaulted by another man just minutes prior.
On April 13, 2026, the High Court delivered the sentence to Harvin Velanggany, an odd-job labourer in Singapore, after he pleaded guilty to the rape of the victim. A separate charge of theft was taken into consideration by the court during the sentencing process.
Details of the Assaults
The incidents occurred on the night of May 26, 2024. The victim was first allegedly raped by a tourist in an open field located at Short Street.
Following the initial attack, the victim encountered Harvin Velanggany and informed him that she had been assaulted. Rather than providing assistance, Velanggany overpowered the woman and raped her in a dimly lit area adjacent to the Rochor MRT station structure, specifically near the housing for air-conditioning units.
After the second assault, Velanggany searched the victim’s bag and stole RM369, equivalent to approximately $120.
The victim eventually secured help by approaching a staff member at Hotel Mi Rochor, which is situated across the road from the location of the second rape. The hotel employee then contacted the police.
Location and Environment
The initial attack took place in a field opposite Hotel Mi Rochor at 89 Short Street. This area, which is described as being larger than a football field, is positioned between Hotel Mi Rochor, Sim Lim Square, and Lasalle College of the Arts, and is tucked between two structures of the Rochor MRT station.
Investigations by The Straits Times indicated that while the area is equipped with streetlights, it typically does not attract crowds during the night.
The identity of the victim remains protected under a gag order.