A 39-year-old man who intentionally left his bag at the platform of Hougang MRT Station while he ran an errand yesterday was arrested for causing alarm to the public, said police. The incident triggered a temporary 20-minute closure of the MRT station as commuters were told to leave for their own safety.

Trains continued running along the North-East Line but skipped Hougang, the first time such a measure was taken due to an emergency.

Only household items were found inside the bag, the police said. "The police treat all security threats seriously and will not hesitate to take action against anyone who intentionally causes public alarm," police said, adding that people should avoid leaving personal belongings unattended and to report any suspicious items or behaviour.

Ng Jun Sen

SEE TOP OF THE NEWS