Latest news with #Sofitel
CNA
2 days ago
- CNA
'I would never have suspected there were drugs': Doctor on trial for consuming MDMA at party says drink was spiked
SINGAPORE: A man on trial for consuming drugs at a Sentosa hotel villa in 2023 said that he had no idea the drinks he had accepted from strangers during a party were spiked. Dr Rayson Lee Rui Sheng, 35, testified on Monday (Jul 28) that it had not crossed his mind that drugs were involved in the birthday party that his partner had organised for a friend at Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa. "This is not something that I could have prevented ... I would never have suspected there were drugs there. None of my friends talk about drugs, none of my friends do drugs," said Dr Lee. Referring to Singapore's strict drug laws, he added: "Never in my mind would I have suspected that someone would have brought drugs to the party." Dr Lee and a co-accused Tan Li Ming, 28, are each contesting a single charge of consuming MDMA, a controlled drug also known as "ecstasy", on or before Aug 9, 2023. Both had attended the party between 8pm on Aug 8 and the early hours of Aug 9, 2023. Urine samples from Dr Lee and Tan were analysed by the Health Sciences Authority and found to contain MDMA. On Monday, Dr Lee resumed the stand to give his testimony while Tan observed in the dock. Both are represented by lawyer Tania Chin. Ms Chin took Dr Lee through the events that occurred from when he returned to the villa with his partner at about 2.45am on Aug 9, 2023, after briefly leaving for a club. Upon his return, he found that the number of party-goers had increased, with many unfamiliar faces. He later learned that many of these were foreigners hailing from countries like Australia and the United States. He commented to one of the party-goers, an Indonesian known as Richard, that the villa was "very crowded". "I was wondering where all these additional people came from. He was equally puzzled," said Dr Lee, adding that he thought the party would have died down by then. "I think it was a little bit odd when I asked them who invited them. I didn't even recognise the name of the person who called them as well, I thought it was a little bit odd that people were, like, calling without seeking permissions or something," he said. Richard then shared with Dr Lee an alcoholic beverage which he said he had taken from another party-goer at the dining area. According to Richard, the drink came from a person who had an "American accent", and who claimed that the beverage was a "cocktail" of the beverages available, which included gin, vodka and coke. While the defence has sought to call Richard as a witness, the Australian resident has declined to testify for fear of being detained upon entering Singapore. About an hour later, Dr Lee had a second drink offered by a foreigner. He said he accepted and shared the drink out of courtesy. Asked if he had asked what the drink was, Dr Lee said he had not as it "looked and tasted" the same as what he had had before. Dr Lee also maintained that he was aware of the kinds of alcohol available as he had made drinks for himself earlier. When presented with a list to identify the individuals who had offered him drinks, Dr Lee said he was unable to recall as there had been too many people. A total of 49 men had been arrested at the party. Ms Chin then asked if Dr Lee had suspected his drink had been spiked at that point, to which the latter said "definitely not". He would not have expected a "benign birthday celebration" which he had believed to be a "safe space" to have drugs, he told the court. His third drink, also from a stranger, came about an hour after the second. Each time Dr Lee took the drink, he felt "high", "happy" and a bit "light-headed"; however, he attributed the sensations to alcohol. At some point, Dr Lee felt overwhelmed by the crowd and went to the pool to take a break. He returned shortly before police officers arrived, at about 5.40am on Aug 9, 2023. Officers had received information about drug-related activity at the villa. POLICE ARRIVE Dr Lee said he initially believed that the police were investigating a noise complaint. He then noticed people forming a line to jump out of the bathroom window, which he felt was "odd". One of these people broke his leg from the attempt, according to Dr Lee, although he added that nobody knew who he was as he could not speak English. "I thought it was just a noise complaint, why would people be jumping out of the window?" he added. "The lights came on and the whole place was a bit more brightly lit, that was when I realised the extent of the movement of drugs, the extent of how many people were there and the presence of these drug-looking items," he said. As the police began gathering everyone into the living room, party goers were told to sit down and "shut up", Dr Lee said. Police officers then had "one-on-one" sessions with participants where they conducted searches on their belongings and bodies, Dr Lee said. Nobody owned up to the drugs or paraphernalia when asked by the police. Packets of drugs, pills and syringes, among other items, were found around the villa, including on a couch, under furniture and at a sink. Dr Lee maintained that he had not seen any of these items as they were in "obscure places" and the venue had been crowded. Dr Lee was also asked at length about previous instances where he could have consumed drugs, in particular during a trip to Pattaya, Thailand, in June 2023. While there, Dr Lee said that he had been pressured by a Thai national to consume pills, which he had believed were mints at first. He told the court that he regretted the incident and has since promised himself that he would never take pills from a stranger again. While mostly calm while on the stand, Dr Lee briefly revealed his frustration over his court case when asked about a statement recorded by an officer. This was when Dr Lee was asked why he had not admitted to the offence in his statement, despite his understanding that he could have been placed in a Drug Rehabilitation Centre (DRC) or on a supervision order. Dr Lee said he had considered the option as "who in the right mind" would not have wanted to go on "the path of least resistance". "But I couldn't in good conscience admit to something that was not the truth," said an emotional Dr Lee, who pointed out that he now had to defend his innocence in court. Those assessed to be at low risk of offending could be placed on a supervision order, while those who undergo a DRC regime will not have a criminal record. PROSECUTION'S QUESTIONING After Ms Chin completed her questions, Deputy Public Prosecutor Jocelyn Teo cross-examined Dr Lee. She argued that the accused had taken the drugs knowingly as he enjoyed the euphoric and lightheaded sensations they caused. Part of the prosecution's argument hinged on the results from Dr Lee's hair sample. Three segments of his hair, each corresponding to different periods of time he allegedly consumed drugs, were analysed and found to contain MDMA and Ketamine. The time periods ranged from between January and late March 2023, between late March and late May 2023, and late May to late July 2023. Dr Lee could not explain why he tested positive for drugs for the periods between January and May 2023, but disagreed when Ms Teo suggested that he had consumed Ketamine and MDMA multiple times before Aug 9, 2023. Ms Teo also alleged that Dr Lee's defence of being spiked was "speculative" and an "afterthought" designed to "piggyback" off the same defence that his co-accused Tan was attempting to use. She led a series of questions about Dr Lee's alleged encounter with the Thai national who fed him pills in Pattaya. Asked if Dr Lee had been force-fed the pill and a drink to wash it down, Dr Teo said he had not been forced but that the incident took place "very fast". "So today, if someone told you to smoke a vape, you would also smoke a vape?" Ms Teo asked. "If someone asked you to jump (from) a building, you would jump?" she continued. Dr Lee replied that he "would not" to both questions. "So it wasn't necessary to comply with the Thai national, was it?" Ms Teo asked. Dr Lee agreed that his behaviour had been "foolish" and that he expressed his regret over the incident. Ms Teo also noted that Dr Lee would not have consumed unknown pills or unknown liquids as a doctor. She put to Dr Lee that he had "worked hard" to get to where he was as a doctor, and "would not jeopardise" his efforts, to which Dr Lee agreed. Yet Dr Lee had taken drinks from strangers, pointed out Ms Teo. To this, Dr Lee said that it was "quite common" in a club or a party to share drinks as long as the person did not appear suspicious or to be potentially harmful. He later said it was a "common social practice" to share or offer drinks as a form of "social lubricant" in such settings. "I never would have suspected there was anything else inside ... I didn't suspect that there would have been anything off," he said. Ms Teo also accused Dr Lee of having "deliberately shut (his) eyes" to the drug activity in the villa as none of these had been conducted secretly. Dr Lee disagreed. The trial will continue on Tuesday with Tan expected to take the stand.
CNA
15-07-2025
- CNA
Trial underway for two men arrested in police drug raid on Sentosa hotel party
SINGAPORE: Two men who were arrested in a drug raid on a party at a Sentosa hotel villa in 2023 went on trial on Tuesday (Jul 15) to fight charges of consuming MDMA. Rayson Lee Rui Sheng, 35, and Tan Li Ming, 28, are each contesting a single charge of consuming a controlled drug on or before Aug 9, 2023. The offence carries between one and 10 years' jail, and a fine of up to S$10,000 (US$7,800). A total of 49 men were arrested at the party, which was believed to have been organised through a closed chat group. Substances including ecstasy and ketamine and drug paraphernalia were seized in the raid. MDMA is also known as ecstasy. The court heard that Lee and Tan attended the party at Sofitel SG Sentosa Resort & Spa between 8pm on Aug 8, 2023 and the early hours of Aug 9. They had various drinks at the gathering. At about 5.40am on Aug 9, 2023, police officers raided the hotel villa after receiving information about drug-related activity taking place there. The party attendees were arrested at about 10.15am. Lee and Tan each provided two urine samples and one hair sample. Under analysis by the Health Sciences Authority, all the samples were found to contain MDMA. The hair samples also contained ketamine. The legal effect of this is that each man is presumed to have consumed MDMA "until the contrary is proved", said Deputy Public Prosecutors Jocelyn Teo and Dhiraj G Chainani in their opening statement. They noted that Lee and Tan did not challenge that their urine samples were obtained according to regulations, and found to contain MDMA. "Given the statutory presumption in section 22 of the Misuse of Drugs Act, the burden of proof rests upon Mr Tan and Dr Lee to rebut the presumption on a balance of probabilities," they said.
What's On
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
6 of Abu Dhabi's must-visit live music bars this summer
Abu Dhabi might be calmer than usual in the summer, but the city doesn't go quiet, atleast not when it comes to live music. From Latin rhythms and intimate jazz sessions by the Corniche to live Irish music and a bit of craic in Yas Bay, the capital knows how to hold a tune. And if you're someone who prefers your nights out with a little rhythm, there's no shortage of live music bars mixing great food and drinks with great sound. Here are 7 of Abu Dhabi's must-visit live music bars that tick all the boxes this summer. COYA COYA's renowned Thursday night Azúcar series brings Havana to the UAE with Cubache, a five‑piece Cuban band spinning Latin and Afro‑Cuban rhythms from 9pm. Sip crafted pisco cocktails and bar bites while taking in lively terrace views over Al Maryah Island. The new mixed‑drink menu is made for sips and sway. Location: The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Four Seasons Hotel, The Galleria – Abu Dhabi Times: Monday to Thursday & Tuesday: 12pm to 4.15pm, 6.30pm to 11.30pm; Friday: 12.30pm to 4.15pm, 6.30pm to 12.15am; Saturday: 12.30pm to 4.15pm, 7pm to 12.15am; Sunday: 12.30pm to 4.15pm, 6.30pm to 11pm. Contact: (0)2 306 7000 | @coyaabudhabi Jazz & Fizz Perched on the 36th floor of Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, Jazz & Fizz Bar pairs city views with Latin‑jazz sets by QBand every Friday from 10pm to midnight. Their signature cocktails and bubbly bubbles make it the ideal spot for crowd‑pleasing tunes and skyline ambience. Location: Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, 36th floor Times: Daily from 4pm–2am Contact: (0) 2 813 7777 | @jazzandfizzad McCafferty's Image: McCafferty's website In the heart of the city, McCafferty's Irish Pub offers live music nights year‑round, featuring local bands and tribute acts. With classic pub grub, a lively atmosphere, and a wide drink selection, it's perfect for a casual midweek or weekend wind‑down with friends. Location: Hilton Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Times: Daily, 9am–2am Contact: (0)58 598 3623 | @ mccaffertysyas Jazz Bar Step inside Radisson Blu's legendary Jazz Bar & Dining along the Corniche for soulful tunes in an intimate setting. A six-piece band delivers live jazz nightly from Wednesday to Friday, backed by soulful vocals and a rotating lineup of artists. Sip on classic cocktails or explore the refined Steak & Jazz menu, featuring dishes like grilled seafood platters, oysters, lamb cutlets, and more. Location: Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Times: Tuesday to Thursday, Sunday & Wednesday: 7pm to 1am; Friday & Saturday: 7pm to 2am; Monday: Closed Contact: (0)56 104 1114 | @ Lock, Stock & Barrel Yas Bay's two‑storey Lock, Stock & Barrel is known for big nights and live music line‑ups, from rock bands to DJ sets. Expect American‑industrial interiors, terrace views, event nights like Tipsy Tuesday and Sunday roast tunes. For a summer evening out with energy and edge, this is it. Location: Yas Bay Waterfront – Yas Island – YS2 – Abu Dhabi Times: Monday to Wednesday, 4pm to 2am; Thursday, 4pm to 3am; Friday, 12pm to 3am; Saturday, 2pm to 3am; Sunday, 12pm to 2am Contact: (0)4 423 8308 | @ lockstockabudhabi The Warehouse A go-to date-night spot at Pearl Rotana Capital Centre, The Warehouse brings vibrant live music to your weekend evenings. Every Thursday, enjoy Spanish and Latin vocals during Tapas Night. Fridays feature eclectic international performances, while Saturdays spotlight Portuguese flavours with Fado e Amigos – complete with unlimited house beer or wine. Location: Pearl Rotana Capital Centre, Al Khaleej Al Arabi St – Al Rawdah – Abu Dhabi Times: Daily. 5pm to 2am Contact: (0)2 307 5552 | @ thewarehouseabudhabi
Arab News
13-07-2025
- Arab News
Luxury meets the sea at Sofitel Bahrain's water villas
Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa has introduced a new pinnacle of luxury hospitality with its exclusive overwater villas — an experience that seamlessly blends French refinement with Bahraini heritage. Nestled above the tranquil waters of the Arabian Gulf, these four private retreats — Emerald, Ruby, Pearl and Topaz — offer an extraordinary escape, redefining seclusion and indulgence in the region. Each villa spans an expansive 360 square meters, featuring a master suite, two additional bedrooms, an elegant living area with panoramic sea views, and a private deck with a temperature-controlled infinity pool. With space to accommodate up to nine guests, these villas provide an intimate yet ultra-luxurious retreat designed for those who seek privacy without compromise. With space to accommodate up to nine guests, these villasprovide an intimate yet ultra-luxurious retreat designed for those who seek privacy without compromise. Strategically positioned for uninterrupted Arabian Sea views, these villas offer a level of privacy rarely found in the region. Whether waking up to the sound of gentle waves or unwinding in a private infinity pool against a backdrop of breathtaking sunsets, guests are immersed in pure serenity. Inside, every detail has been thoughtfully curated to enhance the guest experience. From Balmain Paris bathroom amenities to an integrated Bose audio system and a 65-inch Smart LED HDTV, each villa offers world-class comforts in an intimate setting. Guests can also enjoy a Nespresso coffee machine, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a fully equipped dining area with a kitchenette for bespoke in-villa dining. While the villas offer complete seclusion, guests have full access to Sofitel Bahrain's award-winning facilities, including the renowned Thalassa Sea and Spa, pristine private beaches, and an array of fine dining options. Whether indulging in a rejuvenating spa treatment, enjoying a sunset stroll along the beach, or savoring exquisite French-Arabic fusion cuisine, every aspect of the Sofitel experience is designed to cater to the most refined tastes. 'These overwater villas represent a new era of luxury in Bahrain, offering an experience that was once only found in remote island destinations,' said Mehdi Hanayan, cluster general manager of Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa. 'We are proud to bring this level of exclusivity to the Arabian Gulf, seamlessly blending French sophistication with Bahraini warmth to create an extraordinary retreat for our guests.' With their exquisite design, unparalleled privacy and breathtaking setting, these villas are an experience. Whether for an intimate honeymoon, a last minute getaway, or a private family holiday — Sofitel Bahrain's overwater villas set a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in the region. Exclusive and rare, these overwater villas are available for reservations now. Escape to the Arabian Gulf's most extraordinary retreat — where luxury meets the sea.
NZ Herald
13-07-2025
- Sport
- NZ Herald
What it's really like for a first-time ocean swimmer
So yes, I'm in. I con a friend into joining and we talk about swim training. A month goes by before we head to a shop to buy goggles, a swim cap and togs that will withstand an ocean workout as opposed to floating around the foreshore. My first swim is at Auckland's Point Erin outdoor pool and friend Rina and I are both excited and nervous. Turns out she's an ex-competitive swimmer and it all comes rushing back to her quickly. Not so much for me. One lap and I'm gasping for air. How on earth will I be able to do a 1km swim over three days? Three months, countless pool swims and two ocean swims later, we are ready. Or, ready enough. Swimming beside Olympians, Wendy pushed herself out of her comfort zone. Photo / Wendy Petrie At two hours and 26 minutes, the Air New Zealand flight to Fiji barely feels like an international journey yet the tropical warm air hits us as we walk off the plane. In no time, we're whisked away to the Sofitel Hotel in Denerau. We spend the afternoon at the pool with a pina colada trying not to overthink the next 3 days of swimming. That night more than 200 swimmers and partners gather for dinner on the lawn of the Sofitel. There's a kava drinking ceremony and a show. Dame Sophie Pascoe has come along for the first swim and I can't believe I will be swimming beside a Paralympics champion. The kids will laugh their heads off. 'How to Dad' is there too so hopefully he's a terrible swimmer and I won't look quite so bad. Wendy Petrie tackled a three-day ocean swim in Fiji despite minimal experience. Photo / Wendy Petrie Day one of our ocean swim arrives. It's an early one. By 7.45am we are at the Denarau marina pushing off for Tivua Island. It's a beautiful boat ride with the crew singing Fijian songs. We meet a few Aussies who are doing the 3km swim. In fact, there are more Australians here than Kiwis. It's also predominantly female, something organiser Scott Rice suggests is because women are far better at planning and organising a trip together. There are some excellent swimsuits that would have required some pre-planning, with one group of women from Wagawaga in pink matching sets. Back to the swim. Thankfully, the 1km swimmers are going first. The nerves are kicking in. The day is beautiful, but the wind has picked up and it's a bit choppy around the last buoy. Over 200 people took part in the three-day ocean swimming event. Photo / Wendy Petrie For some reason I stand next to Rina, who is right at the front. First wrong move. The gun goes and we are off; a mass of arms and legs churning up the ocean. I'm breathing quite hard heading to the first buoy and trying to do some backstroke. I try to relax like Liv's swim teacher used to say. Loose as a goose, fast as an eagle. The water is crystal clear with fish darting and even a couple of pretty blue starfish waving up at me from the ocean floor. By the last buoy I'm really pushing myself when the chopping water crashes over my cap and I swallow some sea water. Running under the finish line banner is a real thrill and Rina is there with water and a high five along with our new friends, the sisters. Stunning views, new friendships, and a swim medal made it unforgettable. Photo / Wendy Petrie I feel great! I did it. I came 50th out of 80 and 11th in my age group. Not bad for a newbie. We watch the 3km swimmers in wonder, especially the 70 year olds who are smashing it. The rest of the day is spent on Tivua Island eating a buffet lunch and snorkelling. Day two is a more relaxed start time with the swim off the Sofitel Hotel. I change my mindset for the second swim. I've done it, I know I can do it, now enjoy it. I start off at the back of the pack this time which means less splashing. Twenty seven minutes later I'm running under the finish line with another ocean swim under my belt. The afternoon is spent at the adults only Waitui Bar & Grill which we have access to for the day. It's lovely and by now a lot of the attendees are socialising and mixing with each other. A pina colada in the pool and another happy hour drink at the hotel bar is quite enough for day two. Day three is a trip to Malamala, a beautiful island a half hour away by quick-cat. Rina and I decide we need to warm up before our swim for once. We swing our arms like I've seen Liv (swimming daughter do) and slap our biceps, then head out for a quick 100m ocean warm up. We've also talked to the 3km winner who advises us to kick less as your legs are the biggest muscle that eats up energy. Each swim was followed by a social event or island lunch. Photo / Wendy Petrie The gun goes and we are off. It's beautiful and although I can feel a couple of bites from sea lice, they don't worry me. The view underwater is mesmerising. With 'Nothing's gonna stop us now' blaring over the loudspeaker, I finally find it - my swimming mojo! One, two, one two and I have so much energy. I barely kick my legs and my breathing is even and in control. I could swim like this all day! It's like I'm in an ocean hammock, with the tide gently cradling me as I make my way around the island. I finished in 22 minutes, my best time yet. A finisher's medal tops it off and a few dozen photos later, we are lying on loungers enjoying the day with our catered lunch. The final gathering is back on the lawn of the Sofitel, with white tablecloths and awards. Rina gets a silver medal for coming second in her age group. There are swimmers in their 60s, 70s and 80s crushing it out there. It's quite inspiring. After dinner, we hit the dance floor with our new swimming friends and reflect on our fun week. As I head into my 50's I'm keen to keep pushing myself out of my comfort zone, and that's exactly what I got. Now, what's the next challenge?
