In court, Ong, who was unrepresented, claimed that people drugged his food while he was in hospital. He also requested an independent doctor to examine him but could not give any name. -- PHOTO: SHINMIN
A FORMER cabby who allegedly torched MP for Yio Chu Kang Seng Han Thong at a community event earlier this year has been found by the Institute of Mental Health to be of unsound mind and unfit to plead.
Ong Kah Chua, 70, was ordered on Friday to be been remanded in a mental hospital pending a minister's order.
Ong has been diagnosed to be suffering from delusional disorder of a persecutory type.
On Friday, District Judge Jasbendar Kaur said in light of Dr Jerome Goh's medical assessment and Ong's current mental state, the court would report the case to the minister that he be confined to the mental hospital.
In court, Ong, who was unrepresented, claimed that his food was drugged while he was in hospital.
He also requested an independent doctor to examine him but was unable to provide any name.
He also asked to take his meals outside the IMH - but the court told Deputy Public Prosectur Eugene Lee to convey his request to the hospital.
Ong was charged on Jan 12 with grievously hurting Mr Seng by pouring thinner on the MP and setting him on fire with a lighter at Yio Chu Kang Community Club a day earlier.
He also faces another similar charge of setting temple chairman Aw Chui Seng, 69, on fire.
Ong's case will be reviewed every six months by a medical officer or two visitors from the board
