In a remarkable display of community vigilance and swift police action, the Tanglin Police Division in Singapore successfully apprehended three suspects involved in a series of housebreaking and theft incidents within just 27 hours of the first report. This incident unfolded on the evening of May 9, 2025, when Mdm Lily Tan and her son, Shane Lee, were out for a leisurely walk in their Bukit Timah neighborhood.
During their stroll, the duo noticed an unfamiliar vehicle making repeated turns in their area, which raised their suspicions. Mdm Tan recounted, “We didn’t think much of it at first, but after the car circled back a third time, we decided to take note of its license plate number.” Their instincts proved to be crucial when the next day, they learned from a neighbor about a reported housebreaking incident in the vicinity. Prompted by this information, they contacted the police to share the details of the suspicious vehicle.
The police quickly launched an investigation, which revealed that three separate cases of housebreaking and theft had occurred in the neighborhood on the night of May 9. Utilizing CCTV footage and police camera images, officers were able to track down the suspects, leading to their arrest on May 11, 2025. The suspects, all foreign nationals, were found in possession of stolen items, including a circular power saw, various pieces of jewelry, and significant amounts of cash totaling over S$6,000, 3,100 Euros, and US$6,400.
The rapid response and collaboration between the police and vigilant community members like Mdm Tan and Shane were instrumental in resolving the case. Senior Assistant Commissioner (SAC) Cheong Chee Ming, the commander of the Tanglin Police Division, emphasized the importance of public awareness and timely reporting of suspicious activities. He stated, “The Police will spare no effort to apprehend individuals who come to Singapore to commit crimes and will deal with them sternly in accordance with the law.”
In recognition of their proactive approach, Mdm Tan and Shane were honored with certificates of appreciation from the police. Mdm Tan reflected on the experience, noting the strong sense of community in their neighborhood and the importance of looking out for one another. “It’s good to be prepared and to keep a lookout,” she remarked, highlighting the role of community engagement in enhancing safety.
This incident serves as a reminder of the critical role that community vigilance plays in crime prevention and the effectiveness of police-community partnerships in ensuring public safety. As housebreaking incidents have seen a decline, the police continue to encourage residents to remain alert and report any suspicious behavior, reinforcing the idea that a united community can significantly contribute to a safer environment.