Two American nationals were arrested at Changi Airport after they allegedly shoplifted high-value luxury goods from retail outlets located within the airport’s transit areas. The duo—comprising a 35-year-old man and a 30-year-old woman—were charged in a Singapore court on July 23.
Theft from Luxury Retail Outlets in Transit Zones
The case first came to light on June 23, when staff from The Shilla Duty-Free outlet at Terminal 1 discovered that three bottles of perfume, valued at a total of S$488, were missing during a routine stocktake. The Singapore Police Force (SPF) was alerted around 5:45pm and promptly launched an investigation.
Preliminary findings revealed that the male suspect had allegedly taken the fragrances directly from the display shelf and exited the store without making any payment. Surveillance footage from the airport’s extensive security camera system was instrumental in identifying the suspects, who were apprehended before they could leave Singapore.
Louis Vuitton Item Among Stolen Goods
Further investigations revealed that the man was also involved in an earlier incident, in which he is suspected of stealing a Louis Vuitton card holder worth S$596.33 from another shop at Terminal 1. On top of that, he reportedly took another bottle of perfume priced at S$158.40 from The Shilla outlet at Terminal 3.
The woman, believed to be his accomplice, allegedly acted as a lookout while the thefts were carried out. Police managed to recover all five stolen items from the pair.
Potential Jail Time and Fines Await the Duo
Under Singapore law, theft can carry a maximum sentence of seven years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both. For her role as an accomplice, the woman faces up to five years’ jail and a fine.
This incident once again highlights Singapore’s zero-tolerance approach towards theft, particularly in high-security areas like airport transit zones. Authorities have continually reminded travellers that even seemingly minor offences can result in serious legal consequences.
As international travel picks up and luxury brand retailers thrive in duty-free zones, this case serves as a warning against criminal acts that undermine Singapore’s reputation for law and order.