Two foreign nationals are set to be charged in Singapore after allegedly stealing cosmetic items from a retail outlet within the airport transit area, in a case that highlights strict enforcement against shop theft.
The suspects—a 63-year-old man from New Zealand and a 52-year-old woman from Australia—were arrested following investigations into incidents at Changi Airport Terminal 2.
Authorities confirmed that both individuals will face multiple charges in court, including theft and possession of suspected stolen goods.
Surveillance Footage Leads To Arrest
The case began when police were alerted to a suspected theft at a retail store located in the airport’s transit area on the afternoon of Mar. 25.
A store assistant had earlier noticed that two cosmetic products were missing from the display shelves, prompting further checks.
Through the use of CCTV footage and on-ground enquiries, officers from the Airport Police Division were able to identify the pair and track their movements.
The footage allegedly showed the man taking a bottle of perfume valued at S$239.60 before leaving the store without making payment, accompanied by the woman.
Items Taken In Separate Attempts
Shortly after the first incident, the pair reportedly returned to the same store within minutes.
During this second visit, the man is said to have taken a cosmetic cream worth S$198, again leaving the premises without paying.
The combined value of the stolen items amounted to S$437.60.
Following investigations, officers located both suspects at their hotel room, where they were arrested. The stolen items were recovered, along with two additional bottles of perfume believed to have been fraudulently obtained.
Multiple Charges To Be Filed In Court
Both individuals are expected to be charged with two counts of theft in dwelling with common intention. Under Singapore law, this offence carries a penalty of up to seven years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both.
They will also face one count of fraudulent possession of property, which may result in a jail term of up to one year, a fine of up to S$3,000, or both if convicted.
Strict Enforcement In High-Security Areas
Singapore authorities have consistently taken a firm stance against theft, particularly in sensitive locations such as airports where security is tightly managed.
The case serves as a reminder that offences committed within transit zones are subject to the same legal consequences as those outside, regardless of a traveller’s nationality.
With advanced surveillance systems and coordinated enforcement efforts, law enforcement agencies continue to detect and act swiftly against such crimes, reinforcing Singapore’s reputation for strict law and order.