- ex-NTU researcher fined S$8,000 for stalking a former PhD student.
- Han Xiaobing sent 116 emails despite protection order.
- Victim faced emotional distress due to persistent harassment.
A 34-year-old woman’s obsessive behaviour led to court action and a hefty fine in Singapore.
NTU Researcher’s Stalking Case Unfolds
In a recent article by Channel News Asia, a shocking case of stalking by an ex-NTU (Nanyang Technological University) researcher came to light.
Han Xiaobing, a 34-year-old female Chinese national, was fined S$8,000 on 21 August 2024, for stalking a former PhD student.
The victim, a 29-year-old male Chinese national, had helped Han with a research project at NTU when he was a PhD student.
Things took a turn when Han began sending long messages and expressing personal feelings.
The victim felt uncomfortable and tried to stop contact with the female NTU researcher.
Protection Order Violated
On 25 October 2023, the victim got a protection order against Han under the Protection from Harassment Act.
This order told Han to stay away from the victim’s workplace and not contact him.
But Han didn’t listen. She sent 116 emails to the victim’s NTU email from 25 October to 12 December 2023.
Han also tried to visit the victim’s workplace in Fusionpolis.
According to CNA, the prosecution stated, “The victim had gone to the extent of obtaining a protection order, but Han failed to stop her conduct.”
Impact on the Victim
The stalking had a big effect on the victim’s life.
He faced emotional distress due to the NTU researcher’s actions.
The victim had to block all electronic communications from Han in February 2021.
Even after getting the protection order, the harassment didn’t stop.
On 12 December 2023, the victim filed a police report after Han visited his workplace.
Legal Consequences for Han
| Offense | Maximum Penalty |
|---|---|
| Unlawful Stalking | 12 months in jail and/or S$5,000 fine |
| Violating Protection Order | 6 months in jail and/or S$5,000 fine |
Han pleaded guilty in court but didn’t have a lawyer to represent her.
CNA reported that she told the court that “she had been jobless for a year and eight months due to this incident and asked for leniency.”
Despite her plea, the court fined Han S$8,000 for her actions.
Concerns Raised by the Case
- Effectiveness of protection orders in stalking cases
- Need for better enforcement of harassment laws
- Impact of stalking on victims’ mental health
- Balancing punishment and rehabilitation for offenders
Advice for Victims of Stalking
If you’re being stalked, here are some steps you can take:
- Keep a record of all unwanted contacts or incidents
- Tell friends, family, or colleagues about the situation
- Consider getting a protection order from the court.
- Report persistent stalking to the police.
- Seek help from support groups or counsellors for emotional support.
Moving Forward
This case highlights the need for stronger measures against stalking in Singapore.
It also shows how important it is to take protection orders seriously.
The emotional impact on stalking victims needs more attention and support.
Stalking is a serious issue that can cause real harm to victims. If you or someone you know is being stalked, don’t hesitate to seek help and report it to the authorities.
