- By Shivangi Sharma
- Thu, 24 Jul 2025 08:51 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
An Indian national has been arrested by the Singapore Police for allegedly stealing high-value merchandise, including bags and cosmetics, worth approximately S$5,136 (Rs 3.5 lakh) from multiple retail outlets inside Jewel Changi Airport and the transit area of Changi Airport Terminals.
According to a statement issued by the Singapore Police Force, the 38-year-old man was apprehended on 1 June 2025 while he was transiting through Changi Airport. His arrest followed an earlier incident on 29 May 2025, when a retail outlet at Jewel Changi Airport reported a missing bag after a stock check.
Theft Caught on CCTV
Preliminary investigations revealed that the theft was discovered by a store supervisor. After reviewing CCTV footage, authorities found clear evidence of the man taking a bag and walking out of the shop without making any payment. By the time his identity was confirmed, the suspect had already left Singapore.
However, his return just days later on 1 June proved to be his undoing. Airport Police Division officers intercepted and arrested him while he was in transit. A search of his belongings led to the recovery of several unaccounted-for luxury items.
Involved In 13 Other Thefts
Further investigations and detailed analysis of CCTV footage uncovered a broader pattern of theft. The man had allegedly stolen from 13 other retail outlets within both Jewel Changi and the transit zones of Changi Airport. The stolen items included perfumes, cosmetics, and designer bags, all taken without payment. The total value of the stolen goods recovered from his possession was S$5,136.
The suspect is set to be charged in court on 25 July 2025 with 13 counts of Theft in Dwelling under Section 380 of the Penal Code 1871, which carries a prison term of up to seven years, a fine, or both. He also faces an additional charge of fraudulent possession of property under Section 35(1) of the Miscellaneous Offences (Public Order and Nuisance) Act 1906, which could result in up to two years of imprisonment, a fine, or both.
In a stern warning, the Singapore Police stated that they take a serious view of shop theft and reiterated that escaping Singapore does not guarantee impunity. “Offenders should not think that they can evade capture by quickly boarding an outbound flight,” the statement read. The authorities pledged continued cooperation with airport stakeholders to deter and prevent future theft cases.