Man calls police on monks collecting alms in Bedok after mistaking them as 'fake'

Two monks in saffron robe were spotted collecting alms on the morning of March 19 at Block 216 Bedok North Street 1.

Mistaking the monks as "fake", a passer-by called the police on them.

"They would turn up at around 8am and members of the public would give them food," Mr Wang told Shin Min News, adding that he had seen the same group at Block 58 New Upper Changi Road.

The monks were usually accompanied by several helpers who would carry the donated food items.

He called the police on the monks as he suspected the monks to be "fake" and collecting money other than food.

Palelai Buddhist Temple volunteer, Mr Hong, explained that it was not the first time the police were alerted and that the monks would ask for food as alms.

"Some members of the public may not understand this very well and give money out of kindness," said Mr Hong.

"If money is received, it is collected by the accompanying volunteers and put into the temple's fund. The monks do not take the money."

The temple explains the collection of alms on its website.

"Volunteers will help to explain to the public that the alms bowl is meant for collecting donations of food and not monetary offerings, and the significance of the observances."