An Indian man's alleged shoplifting spree at Singapore's Changi Airport came to an end when he was arrested upon returning to the country. The 38-year-old is accused of stealing bags, cosmetics, and perfumes worth over S$5,136 (approximately Rs 3.5 lakh) from 14 different stores located in Jewel Changi Airport and the airport's transit area.
The series of thefts began to unravel on May 29, when a supervisor at a retail outlet in Jewel Changi Airport noticed a bag missing during a routine stock check. After being alerted, the police reviewed CCTV footage and identified the man taking the item and leaving the store without paying. By the time authorities had confirmed his identity, the man had already left Singapore.
However, the long arm of the law caught up with him when he returned to Singapore on June 1. Officers from the Airport Police Division apprehended him while he was transiting through Changi Airport. A search of his luggage revealed several items believed to have been stolen from the various airport shops. The police confirmed that the stolen items were recovered.
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) issued a press release on July 23, stating that the man is believed to have targeted 14 retail outlets, stealing items such as bags, perfumes, and cosmetics. He is expected to be charged on July 25 with multiple counts of theft and fraudulent possession of property. If convicted of theft in dwelling, he could face a maximum sentence of seven years' imprisonment, a fine, or both. Additionally, the charge of fraudulent possession of property carries a potential sentence of up to two years in prison, a fine, or both.
The police have emphasized their zero-tolerance stance on shop theft and have warned that offenders will be dealt with firmly. They also stated that individuals should not assume they can evade capture by quickly boarding a flight. The police will continue to collaborate closely with stakeholders to prevent and deter shop theft cases.
This incident follows a similar case in April, where another Indian national was arrested for stealing items worth over Rs 1,14,705 from five shops at Changi Airport.
