The Little India riot: experience of an emergency department in Singapore

INTRODUCTION

Singapore experienced its second riot in 40 years on 8 December 2013, in the area known as Little India. A retrospective review of 36 casualties treated at the emergency department was conducted to evaluate injury patterns.

METHODS

Characteristics including the rate of arrival, injury severity, type and location, and disposition of the casualties were analysed.

RESULTS

The injuries were predominantly mild (97.2%), with the most common injuries involving the head (50.0%) and limbs (38.9%). 97.2% of the casualties were managed as outpatient cases.

CONCLUSION

The majority of the injuries in this incident were mild and could be managed as outpatient cases. Important lessons were learnt from the incident about the utilisation of manpower and safety of staff in the emergency department.