8 teens, aged 12-15, arrested for allegedly pranking occupants of Hougang HDB unit

Eight male teenagers, aged between 12 and 15, were arrested on Thursday (Nov. 12) for their alleged involvement in a series of public nuisance incidents targeting a residential unit in Hougang. Four other male youths are also assisting with ongoing investigations. According to a Singapore Police Force (SPF) news release, authorities received multiple reports of disturbances at a home along Hougang Avenue 8 between September and November 2026. Preliminary investigations indicate that the incidents were linked to a prank publicised online. On multiple occasions, the youths allegedly visited the residential unit late at night, knocked loudly on the doors and windows, and fled the scene—causing significant distress and annoyance to both the occupants and neighbouring residents. Officers from the Ang Mo Kio Police Division successfully identified the suspects through ground enquiries and closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage. Following the arrests of the eight youths on Nov. 12, police stated that efforts are still underway to track down other individuals who may have participated in the acts. All 12 are currently being investigated for the offence of public nuisance under Section 290 of the Penal Code 1871. If convicted, offenders face a jail term of up to three months, a fine of up to S$2,000, or both. In their statement, the SPF emphasised that they take a serious view of acts that disrupt the peace and cause distress to the community, warning that firm action will be taken against those who disregard the law. Police also urged members of the public to act responsibly and refrain from taking part in online pranks or viral challenges that could amount to criminal offences. Anyone with information related to these incidents is encouraged to contact the Police Hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submit a report online via www.police.gov.sg/i-witness. All information provided will be kept strictly confidential