Bangkok, Nov 10 (EFE).- A priest, who was stabbed during evening mass in Singapore in an attack that does not appear to be an act of terrorism, is in stable condition, police said Sunday.
The 57-year-old Catholic priest was stabbed during the communion ceremony at St Joseph’s Church, in the central region of the city-state, at around 6:30 pm by a 37-year-old Singaporean man.
The attacker, who has a history of serious hurt and drugs offenses, was disarmed by two members of the congregation and later arrested by police officers.
“Preliminary investigation indicate that the subject had acted alone and the police do not suspect this to be an act of terrorism,” Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Police Bertran Chia said at a press conference early Sunday, adding that investigations into the incident were ongoing.
Authorities found three other knives belonging to the attacker, who will be brought to court on Monday to be charged with the offense of voluntarily causing grievous hurt by dangerous weapon, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
The police will also ask the court to have the man admitted to a mental health institute for psychological evacuation.
The priest, identified as Christopher Lee, is in stable condition and recovering from surgery at the National University Hospital, the Archbishop’s Communication Office told Channel News Asia on Sunday.
Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong wished the priest a speedy recovery and said that violence had no place in Singapore.
“We must uphold the safety and sanctity of our places of worship – places where people seek peace, solace, and community,” the prime minister said in a post on Facebook.
The attack was also condemned by religious leaders of other faiths in the city-state. EFE
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