Jane Lee, a beloved mother of two and the dynamic force behind “Sumo Salad” (later rebranded as “Sumo Well”), was a well-known figure in Singapore’s food and beverage (F&B) scene. With outlets in Holland Village and Marina One, Jane had built a reputation not only for healthy, delicious food but also for her warm, personal connection with customers and staff alike.
Known for her generosity, passion, and dedication, Jane was described by friends and colleagues as deeply committed to her craft. In her 40s, she had spent years nurturing her business and team—always striving to grow despite the challenges that small businesses face.
But what started as a routine dispute involving a workplace injury spiraled into a heartbreaking tragedy. On July 18, 2025, Jane made two emotional posts on Facebook. The next day, she was found dead in what police have called an “unnatural” death.
💬 What Jane Alleged: The Compensation Scam
In her now-viral Facebook posts, Jane made serious allegations against a former employee, Sran Kiranjeet Kaur—an Indian national whose contract was nearing completion. Jane claimed that Kaur faked a workplace injury to file a Work Injury Compensation (WIC) claim.
Key Allegations Made by Jane:
- Staged Injury: Jane alleged that Kaur pretended to slip on an escalator while taking out the trash. According to her, the fall was planned and timed, as Kaur had supposedly insisted on staying late despite being scheduled to leave early.
- Contradictory Behavior: Jane stated she had video footage that showed Kaur walking, cooking, and moving freely, only to later feign pain in front of doctors and insurance assessors.
- Involvement of a Third Party: She also claimed that Kaur’s husband (referred to as “Mamu”) and possibly a law firm had orchestrated the plan to exploit Singapore’s injury compensation system.
- Legal Loopholes & Systemic Vulnerability: Jane warned about how small businesses like hers were at risk, especially those that didn’t have deep insurance coverage or large legal teams. She called on authorities to intervene, fearing she might not be the last victim of such tactics.
🕵️ Ongoing Investigations: Cause of Death & Compensation Probe
Police Investigation
Following her sudden passing on July 19, the Singapore Police Force officially classified Jane Lee’s death as “unnatural.” While the exact cause of death has not been confirmed publicly, there was speculation on social media that she may have died by suicide. However, this remains unverified by official sources.
Police are continuing their investigations into both her death and the allegations she made in her final posts.
Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Response
Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower confirmed that they were in contact with Jane before her death regarding the injury compensation issue. They stated that they are now working with the employee’s insurer to investigate the legitimacy of the WIC claim.
The MOM emphasized that if any evidence of misuse of the compensation system is found, strict action will be taken in accordance with Singapore’s laws.
💔 The Emotional Toll on the Community
Jane’s death sent shockwaves through the local business and F&B community. Many of her customers, colleagues, and friends gathered at St Joseph’s Church in Bukit Timah to pay their respects and remember her life.
What People Said About Jane:
- “She was kind-hearted and always eager to help others.”
- “A sunshine girl who cared deeply for everyone around her.”
- “She carried everyone’s burdens… it’s heartbreaking that she couldn’t carry her own.”
Despite the emotional blow, her staff reopened the Holland Village outlet the following Monday—perhaps as a symbol of Jane’s enduring dedication and spirit.
📌 Key Issues Raised by the Case
1. Fraud Allegations in the Workplace
Jane’s detailed posts brought attention to how the WIC system can be misused. While these claims are still under investigation, they highlight how difficult it can be for employers—especially small businesses—to challenge potentially fraudulent claims without access to strong legal or insurance support.
2. Vulnerability of Small Businesses
Jane openly shared how the injury compensation case placed financial and emotional strain on her. For small businesses operating on tight budgets, such claims—whether legitimate or not—can lead to lasting damage, especially if they do not have comprehensive insurance coverage.
3. Mental Health and Public Pressure
Jane’s final days were marked by visible emotional distress. Her social media posts reflected someone who felt cornered, betrayed, and overwhelmed. The situation raises urgent questions about how mental health support is provided for small business owners facing legal, financial, and emotional challenges.
🔍 What Lies Ahead?
Continued Police Inquiry
Authorities are still working to determine the exact cause of Jane’s death. The term “unnatural death” includes a broad range of possibilities—from suicide to foul play. A full medical and forensic report is expected, although the timeline remains uncertain.
Work Injury Compensation Assessment
The MOM and insurer are currently examining the injury claim made by Kaur. If evidence of fraud is found, this could lead to legal consequences for those involved and may prompt revisions in how WIC claims are assessed.
Systemic Reforms
Jane’s public statements before her death have sparked broader conversations about:
- Strengthening legal protection for employers.
- Creating clearer protocols for handling suspected fraudulent injury claims.
- Introducing better mental health support mechanisms for small business owners.
📝 Final Thoughts
Jane Lee’s life was defined by passion, hard work, and resilience. Her passing, just a day after her public plea for justice, has left many shaken and searching for answers. The events leading up to her death reveal not only the vulnerability of business owners to exploitation but also the emotional toll such betrayals can exact.
Her courage in speaking out—even amid fear and desperation—must not be forgotten. Jane’s story is a tragic reminder that behind every business is a human being, often silently carrying the weight of employees, customers, and community.
As the investigation unfolds, the hope is that her voice will spark real change—for better protections, for mental health support, and for justice. Let Jane’s legacy be one not only of food and service—but of truth and courage.