SINGAPORE — A cyclist has been sentenced to jail for obstructing a National Parks Board (NParks) officer while attempting to leave a closed trail within Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, authorities confirmed.

The incident occurred when the individual tried to ride through a section of the Hindhede Trail that had been temporarily closed for safety and maintenance reasons. According to court records, an NParks officer was carrying out official duties to enforce the closure when the cyclist attempted to exit the restricted area without authorisation and resisted directions.

Police were later called to the scene, and the cyclist was charged with obstructing a public officer in the execution of their duty — an offence that can carry custodial penalties under local law. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the importance of compliance with park regulations and the need to support officers enforcing public safety measures.

Representatives from NParks said trail closures are implemented to safeguard both park users and the environment, and reiterated that individuals must follow posted advisories and instructions from officers. NParks continues to remind visitors to check trail status updates before entering nature reserves and to adhere strictly to closures.

The conviction serves as a reminder of the legal obligations tied to public space management and the consequences of failing to comply with official directives aimed at protecting both people and natural habitats.