An online prank involving a licked tube cost a French student in Singapore dearly. Nevertheless, he got off lightly.
July 30, 2026, 05:23July 30, 2026, 05:47
A court sentenced the 19-year-old to a fine of 600 Singapore dollars (about 380 francs) after he pleaded guilty to disturbing public order through his action, according to the newspaper “Straits Times” citing the judiciary reported.
However, the defendant got off lightly – he was even threatened with a prison sentence. It is still unclear whether his residence permit will also be revoked. The Frenchman has a student passport and is studying at the ESSEC Business School in Singapore.
What had happened?
In March, the student first pulled a tube out of the dispenser at a freshly squeezed orange juice machine, licked it and then put it back. He filmed the scene for an Instagram story.
An employee of the juice machine operator saw the video that went viral and contacted the police. As a result, all 500 drinking straws in the machine had to be replaced. According to court documents, the damage caused only amounted to five Singapore dollars (around 3.10 francs) – but the case caused a stir across the country.
If found guilty, the Frenchman faced several months in prison or a fine – or both – for disturbing public order. However, he appeared remorseful in court: his lawyer explained that his client had now become aware that a seemingly harmless and playful action could have far-reaching consequences.
Strict laws and a ban on chewing gum
The wealthy city-state of Singapore is known for its strict laws and their consistent enforcement. High standards of cleanliness and strict rules in public spaces have been the country’s trademark for decades. For example, the import of chewing gum is largely banned in order to prevent pollution and vandalism. (sda/dpa)