After getting into a heated argument with two men, Vikneshson Marian Devasagayam punched one of them repeatedly in the face and then spat at a police officer who was there to investigate.

The 24-year-old was yesterday jailed for 10 weeks after he pleaded guilty to using criminal force on a public servant and causing hurt.

He was also fined $1,500 in total, or 10 days' jail in default, for two separate charges related to his drinking. On July 5 last year, he behaved in a disorderly manner by flipping the tables and chairs at a coffee shop in Punggol Field. On May 21 this year, he annoyed patrons of a coffee shop and pulled a carpark barrier belonging to Ramky Group, causing it to be dislodged. Three other charges were considered in sentencing.

A district court heard that the assault occurred on June 17 last year. Vikneshson was walking past Mr Alex Yao Yang and Mr Ang Ding Neng at the void deck of a block in Pasir Ris Street 51 when he perceived he was being laughed at.

While the three were arguing, Vikneshson pushed Mr Yao's shoulder and swung a beer bottle, which Mr Ang blocked with his hand. Both men then punched Vikneshson, who called the police.

But before the police arrived, Vikneshson punched Mr Yao in the face four to five times.

Investigating officer S. Uthayakumar arrived with another officer and told Vikneshson to accompany them to the station, but he became agitated and caused spittle to land on the investigating officer's face.

While he was being arrested, Vikneshson spat at the officer but it landed on the policeman's shoes.

He could have been jailed for up to four years and/or fined for using criminal force to deter a public servant from discharging his duty.