Car Rear-Ends Bus in Singapore, Driver Arrested for Suspected Drug-Driving; Vape Seized

A 31-year-old man was arrested for allegedly driving under the influence of drugs after his car rear-ended an SBS Transit bus in Singapore’s Rochor area, leaving several people injured.

The accident happened at about 6.45pm on Saturday, Sept. 12, along Middle Road towards Sophia Road. The collision involved a car, a Service 56 bus and a power-assisted bicycle (PAB).

According to SBS Transit, the car crashed into the rear of the bus while passengers were boarding and alighting at a bus stop. Images from the scene showed extensive damage to the car’s bonnet and the rear engine compartment of the bus.

A 32-year-old male PAB rider and a 65-year-old female bus passenger were taken to Raffles Hospital while conscious. The 31-year-old car driver suffered minor injuries but declined to be taken to hospital.

SCDF said another six people were assessed for minor injuries but declined hospital treatment. SBS Transit said the remaining passengers were transferred to another bus so they could continue their journeys.

The driver was subsequently arrested for driving under the influence of drugs. Police also found and seized a vaporiser in his possession. The vaporiser-related offence has been referred to the Health Sciences Authority for further investigation.

Authorities have not publicly identified the specific drug allegedly involved, and investigations into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

The incident comes as Singapore continues to take a tougher stance on drug-impaired driving. Police have warned that driving while impaired by drugs can put other road users at serious risk. Recent cases have also involved vaporisers being seized and subsequently referred to HSA for testing.

For a first conviction of driving under the influence of drugs under Singapore’s Road Traffic Act, an offender can face a fine of between S$2,000 and S$10,000, imprisonment of up to 12 months, or both. Repeat offenders face higher penalties and may also be disqualified from driving.

Police investigations into the Middle Road accident are continuing.