Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam has condemned the recent delivery of a parcel containing meat, which “appears to be pork,” to the Al-Istiqamah Mosque in Singapore’s Serangoon precinct, calling it an act that could dangerously inflame tensions in a multi-ethnic society. He stressed that this was not an isolated incident, noting that police are investigating “other similar cases” of meat being sent to mosques in recent times.
The suspicious parcel was discovered on Wednesday evening, prompting the Singapore Police Force, in coordination with the Civil Defence Force, to evacuate the mosque as a precaution. Hazardous materials checks found no dangerous substances. One woman present was briefly treated for breathlessness and later discharged.
Shanmugam described the act as “obviously inflammatory” and warned of its implications, stressing that targeting places of worship is entirely unacceptable. Authorities are taking the matter seriously and pledged to act firmly against those responsible. Police have also stepped up visits to mosques to ensure safety, while mosque leaders have called for calm, and prayers continued as usual.
The minister referenced similar incidents in the past, including the April 2024 case where a man placed cans of pork at the entrance of Al-Ansar Mosque, as well as other violent or planned attacks on religious sites. Shanmugam emphasized that while places of worship must remain open and accessible, sensible security measures combined with police intelligence are necessary to protect public safety.
He concluded by highlighting interfaith solidarity, noting that leaders of other religions have expressed concern and support, reinforcing Singapore’s commitment to mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
