Execution of Captured Rimau Commandos

Operation Rimau stands as a significant, albeit costly, Allied commando mission undertaken during World War II. The operation's objective was to disrupt Japanese shipping in Singapore Harbour through the deployment of folboats, a type of military craft. This was not the first such attempt; it followed Operation Jaywick, a previous raid conducted by the Z Special Unit. Operation Rimau itself was a component of a broader plan known as Operation Hornbill, aiming to sink vessels under the cover of darkness using limpet mines.

Despite initial plans involving submersible canoes, the mission ultimately relied on folboats. The daring raid was ultimately discovered by local Malay authorities. The aftermath saw fierce engagements with Japanese forces across several island locations, resulting in the loss of thirteen commandos, including the leader Lieutenant Colonel Ivan Lyon. Ten others were captured, tried under disputed circumstances in Singapore, and executed in July 1945.