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More than 10 individuals are currently facing legal action related to the August 2023 gang brawl, with various charges ranging from violent assault to murder
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While Visnu has received his sentence, the trials of other accused, including Sukumaran, continue
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The outcome of these trials will likely have significant implications for the way gang violence is dealt with in Singapore’s legal system
A 28-year-old Indian-origin man, Visnu Suriamurthi, has been sentenced to six weeks in jail and fined SGD 2,000 by a Singapore court on Friday. Visnu pleaded guilty to charges of voluntarily causing hurt to a rival gang member and engaging in illegal gambling. This sentencing is linked to a violent gang clash that took place outside the Concorde Hotel and Shopping Mall on Orchard Road in Singapore on August 20, 2023, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
Violent gang brawl results in one fatality and multiple arrests
The confrontation between two rival gangs turned deadly when Mohammad Isrrat Mohammad Ismail, a 29-year-old member of a rival gang, was fatally stabbed during the brawl. Authorities allege that Asvain Pachan Pillai Sukumaran, a 30-year-old man of Indian origin and a member of Visnu’s group, used Ismail’s own knife to deliver the fatal blows. Sukumaran has been charged with murder and is currently undergoing trial for his role in the incident.
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Following the altercation, Visnu was arrested at a hospital where he had gone to seek medical treatment
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The incident has led to more than 10 individuals facing legal proceedings for their involvement in the violent brawl
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The case has captured significant public attention due to the severity of the violence and the number of people involved.
Visnu’s history of violent offenses and the court’s warning
Visnu Suriamurthi’s sentencing is also influenced by his criminal history. In 2022, he served two separate jail terms for similar violent offenses. District Judge Ong Luan Tze highlighted Visnu’s potential for reform, urging him to reflect on his actions and future. “You are still young… Take some time to think about how you want your future to pan out, and after this case, to seriously consider not coming back to court,” Judge Ong remarked during the sentencing.
Visnu’s case underscores the ongoing challenge of addressing gang violence and criminal behavior within the community. His involvement in both the violent brawl and illegal gambling has raised concerns about the growing presence of gang-related activities in Singapore.
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