SINGAPORE: A Land Transport Authority (LTA) enforcement officer who was identified as Mr Zdulfika Ahakasah was killed after chasing a sped-off motorcyclist on the Seletar Expressway (SLE) on June 4, Tuesday morning.
“An LTA enforcement officer, who was riding the motorcycle, was carried to the hospital where he later passed away,” said the police.
The police mentioned that they were alerted about the accident in response to CNA’s queries involving a motorcycle, two lorries, and a van on SLE towards Bukit Timah Expressway, near the Tampines Expressway exit, around 10:40 am.
An 18-year-old teen rider whom the officer was chasing before the accident, was arrested for multiple crimes: To ignore an authorized officer when asked to stop, dangerous driving, riding without a valid license and insurance coverage, possession of scheduled weapons, and suspected drug-related activities.
“The Land Transport Authority is deeply saddened that LTA enforcement officer Mr Zdulfika Ahakasah passed on in a fatal accident this morning. He is a valued member of our enforcement team,” LTA said in response to CNA’s queries.
Videos of the accident uploaded on social media make it obvious that Zdulfika nearly stopped beside the motorcyclist on the road shoulder. But the motorcyclist suddenly sped away and changed direction to head towards the expressway exit. Mr Zdulfika continued to chase but crashed into a road divider.
LTA added that they are working with the Traffic Police to investigate the incident deeply and bring the motorcyclist involved to justice. “We are in contact with his family to extend our condolences and full support during this difficult time,” they said.
The commander of Traffic Police, Senior Assistant Commissioner Daniel Tan, mourned: “This was a tragic loss of life of a fellow law enforcer who died while executing his duty to keep our roads safe. The police will investigate this matter thoroughly, and ensure that those responsible will face the full brunt of the law.”
In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat grieved, he was “extremely saddened by the tragic news”.
“Our enforcement and frontline officers perform their duties with courage and dedication. My deepest condolences to Zdulfika’s family,” Mr Chee posted.
