Balloon in funpack safe for use: NDP organisers

A WhatsApp message has been making the rounds, warning Singaporeans of supposedly exploding LED balloon maracas in the National Day funpack.

But the National Day Parade (NDP) organisers have deflated such claims, saying that the balloon maracas are safe for use.

In a Facebook post uploaded last night, the NDP Executive Committee said it was aware of the messages, and added: "The manufacturer assures (us) that the balloon maracas have gone through careful testing for quality control and are safe for use.

"Notwithstanding, we urge users to use the LED balloon maracas in accordance with the instructions on the packaging and avoid overinflating the balloon."

Some Singaporeans had received a WhatsApp message recently, saying that the LED balloon maracas can explode and send small beads inside flying.

"If it explodes, pellets flying out of the balloon can cause serious injuries to the eyes or face. (Please) let your friends with small kids know of this danger," said the WhatsApp message. It is unclear where the message originated from or if anyone had been hurt.

Man, 27, charged over Bedok slashing case

A 27-year-old man was charged yesterday in court with slashing another man at Block 538, Bedok North Street 3, on Tuesday.

Sari Gujang is accused of attacking Mr Muhammad Rizuwan Zakariah, 25, with a knife at about 5am that day.

The attack left the victim with a 10cm wound on his left palm.

The case will next be heard in court on July 30.