An Australian woman was charged in Singapore after she was accused of spray painting offensive messages on a Salvation Army building and its vehicles on Christmas morning. The 43-year-old suspect, identified as Dianna Ong, now faces legal action and has been ordered to undergo psychiatric evaluation.
The alleged vandalism took place at Praisehaven – The Salvation Army in Upper Bukit Timah at around 6.35am. Police were later alerted to the scene at approximately 9.15am and upon arrival, discovered graffiti on the building’s exterior and three charity vans.
Authorities arrested Ong the same day, and the case was swiftly brought before the State Courts. Police reaffirmed their firm stance that acts threatening racial and religious harmony will not be tolerated in Singapore.
The accused is to be remanded at the Institute of Mental Health for psychiatric assessment to determine her mental state at the time of the incident. The court has fixed January 9, 2026, as the next date of mention.
If found guilty of vandalism, Ong may be fined up to S$2,000 or sentenced to a maximum of three years’ imprisonment. While Singapore law allows for caning as an additional punishment for vandalism offences, women are exempt from receiving corporal punishment.
The Salvation Army, known for its extensive charitable and humanitarian programmes, has not issued a detailed public statement regarding the damage, though the incident has been widely reported due to its timing on Christmas Day.
The case reinforces Singapore’s strict approach toward public order offences, especially those involving religious institutions. Investigations are ongoing to determine the motive, and the public has been urged to avoid speculation.