An air force lieutenant colonel has been accused of trespassing on Nanyang Technological University dormitory and disrespecting female students.

Defendant Neo Aik Chiao, 45, faces two counts of criminal trespassing and one count of indecent assault.

The charge alleges that the defendant trespassed on the dormitory room of two NTU girls at around 2 am on the 13th of this month. Their ages are 18 and 21 years old respectively. The defendant is also alleged to have touched the thigh of the 21-year-old girl.

The Ministry of Defense stated that the accused has been suspended and stressed that members of the armed forces must maintain the highest standards of discipline, and those who break the law will be dealt with according to law. Those who commit serious crimes can be dismissed from office.

Nanyang Technological University (NTU) stated that the school has stepped up security patrols after the incident and provided assistance to affected students. NTU said that the school’s top priority is keeping its students safe, and that it takes trespassing “very seriously”.

The Ministry of Defence’s (Mindef) spokesperson commenting on the incident, said: “As court proceedings are ongoing, Mindef/SAF is unable to comment further on the case at this juncture. We will carefully assess the eventual findings before deciding on further appropriate actions.

“The SAF holds its service personnel to high standards of discipline and integrity. Service personnel who commit offences will be dealt with in accordance with the law. Those convicted of serious offences may be discharged from regular service.”

Netizens are outraged at his outrage of modesty. Many have criticised him for being a disappointment and an embarrassment to the nation. Some have called him a waste of taxpayer’s dollars for his high salary. Some people have also called for him to be caned.

The case was adjourned to the 29th of this month.