In a deeply unsettling development, Jane Lee, a food outlet owner in Singapore, was found dead just one day after publicly accusing her Indian employee of staging a workplace injury to claim compensation. Her death, which is now being investigated as “unnatural” by the Singapore Police Force, has triggered widespread discussion across the island nation and beyond.
This case not only stirs emotions but also raises serious concerns about the abuse of work injury compensation systems, employer vulnerability, and mental health stress faced by small business owners. Here’s everything we know so far.
Who Was Jane Lee?
Jane Lee was the owner of Sumo Salad, a local food outlet in Singapore. In her 40s, Lee was described by those who knew her as a hard-working entrepreneur and a devoted mother to her two children.
Her name entered national headlines when she posted a now-viral Facebook message on July 16, 2025, accusing her foreign employee of faking a workplace injury to obtain compensation. Just a day later, she was found dead, leading to intense speculation, shock, and sorrow within the community.
The Facebook Allegation: What Did Jane Lee Say?
In her final social media post, Jane Lee wrote in detail about her employee, Sran Kiranjeet Kaur, an Indian national. According to Lee, Kaur had faked a slip-and-fall incident on an escalator while disposing of rubbish. Lee alleged that this injury was deliberately staged toward the end of Kaur’s employment contract, with the intent of claiming injury compensation under Singapore’s legal framework.
Key Points from Jane Lee’s Post:
- The incident occurred when Kaur was supposed to leave work early but instead stayed late and claimed to fall on an escalator.
- Lee alleged the injury was staged to exploit Singapore’s Work Injury Compensation Act (WICA).
- She claimed to have video evidence showing Kaur moving and working normally, suggesting she was exaggerating her injury symptoms in front of doctors.
- Lee also mentioned that Kaur’s husband and a legal firm were “coaching” individuals on how to exploit small businesses.
- The post urged the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and Singapore Police to investigate such fraudulent cases.
Lee concluded the post with the chilling line: “I fear I won’t be the last.”
Jane Lee’s Sudden Death: What We Know
Just 24 hours after her emotional Facebook post, Jane Lee was found dead under mysterious circumstances. The Singapore Police Force confirmed they are treating it as an unnatural death, although the exact cause is still under investigation.
According to official statements:
- No foul play has been confirmed yet.
- The investigation is ongoing, and forensic examinations are underway.
- Police are also likely reviewing digital evidence, including Jane Lee’s last social media activity.
What Does the Ministry of Manpower Say?
Following the viral post and Jane’s sudden death, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) released an official statement:
“MOM is working with the company’s insurer to assess the validity of the injury claim. We will not hesitate to act against anyone found abusing the Work Injury Compensation system.”
The ministry also encouraged other business owners to report suspected fraudulent claims and assured that there are systems in place to protect employers.
Public Reaction: Outrage, Sympathy, and Demand for Reform
Jane Lee’s death has shocked the nation. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of:
- Condolence and sympathy for her children and family.
- Anger over potential abuse of the injury compensation system.
- Calls for a thorough probe into both the alleged fraud and her untimely death.
Many small business owners have come forward sharing similar experiences of suspected fake injury claims, stating they feel helpless against legal manipulation and lack of insurance coverage.
Understanding the Work Injury Compensation System in Singapore
Under the Work Injury Compensation Act (WICA) in Singapore:
- Employees can claim compensation for work-related injuries without having to sue their employer.
- Employers are legally required to purchase insurance for manual workers and those earning below a threshold.
- If employers lack proper insurance, they may face financial ruin in the event of a claim.
However, this system has reportedly been exploited by some individuals through:
- Staged accidents.
- Fake or exaggerated medical reports.
- Legal loopholes that put the burden of proof on employers.
The Mental Toll on Small Business Owners
Jane Lee’s post revealed her emotional distress and fear of financial and legal trouble. Small business owners, particularly those without comprehensive legal support or insurance, are often exposed to:
- Psychological pressure
- Unfair lawsuits
- Social media backlash
Her death highlights the urgent need for:
- Mental health support systems for entrepreneurs.
- Government intervention to prevent fraudulent injury claims.
- Clearer legal frameworks to protect small businesses.
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