Priest Stabbing Suspect Taken to Crime Scene at St Joseph’s Church

The man accused of stabbing a priest during mass at St Joseph’s Church was taken back to the crime scene on Dec 6 for further investigation. Basnayake Keith Spencer, a 37-year-old Singaporean, allegedly stabbed Father Christopher Lee Kwong Heng with a foldable knife on Nov 9 during communion at the church in Upper Bukit Timah.

Basnayake arrived at the church escorted by four police officers. Wearing a mask, a white polo shirt, and restraints, he retraced his actions as part of the investigative process. Police questioned him at various locations, including the hall where the stabbing occurred and the altar, spending nearly 25 minutes on-site.

The attack unfolded during a special children’s mass, where children performed duties like choir singing. Witnesses, including members of the Archdiocesan Emergency Response team, helped subdue Basnayake until the authorities arrived. Father Lee sustained a stab wound to the mouth, requiring surgery. He was discharged from the hospital on Nov 15.

Investigations indicate that Basnayake acted alone, and the attack is not believed to be religiously motivated or related to terrorism. Minister K Shanmugam confirmed the accused’s Christian faith and Sinhalese heritage. The case, which highlights growing concerns about security at places of worship, is set for its next hearing on Dec 9.

If convicted of voluntarily causing grievous hurt with a dangerous weapon, Basnayake could face life imprisonment, up to 15 years in jail, a fine, and caning.

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