Singapore Court Sentences Indian National Nurse to 14 Months’ Jail, Caning Over Molestation Charge

Singapore – A 34-year-old Indian national, Elipe Siva Nagu, working as a staff nurse at Raffles Hospital in Singapore, has been sentenced to 14 months in jail and two strokes of the cane for molesting a male visitor. The court delivered the sentence on Friday, October 24, 2025.

The incident occurred in June when the victim was visiting his grandfather, who was admitted to the hospital on North Bridge Road. According to court documents, the victim went to use the toilet at approximately 7:30 p.m. when Nagu looked inside. Nagu then entered the washroom and molested the victim under the guise of wanting to "disinfect" him, using soap during the assault.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Eugene Phua told the court that the victim was shocked by the incident and suffered emotional distress, including recurring flashbacks. The victim reported the incident to the authorities a few days later, and Nagu was arrested on June 23. Following the report, Raffles Hospital immediately suspended Nagu from his nursing duties.

Molestation cases are taken very seriously in Singapore, and caning is a common punishment for such offenses. The sentence reflects Singapore's strict stance on such crimes and serves as a deterrent. The court considered the breach of trust involved, as Nagu was employed at a reputable private hospital. His actions were deemed a serious violation of professional ethics.

This case underscores the severe legal consequences for such criminal acts in Singapore and highlights the importance of safety protocols within healthcare settings. The sentencing reaffirms the judiciary's commitment to upholding public safety and ensuring that offenders are held accountable for their actions.