69-Year-Old Man Arrested for Shoplifting in Changi Airport Transit Area; Stolen Items Recovered
A 69-year-old Bangladeshi man was arrested in the transit area of Changi Airport for his alleged involvement in two cases of shop theft, thanks to swift action by officers from the Airport Police Division. The arrest, made within an hour of the report, prevented the suspect from leaving Singapore.
The first incident unfolded on 25 June 2025 at about 1.50pm, when the Police were alerted to a theft at “The Shilla Cosmetics & Perfumes” outlet in Changi Airport Terminal 3’s transit area. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect had allegedly stolen three lipsticks and a box of hair serum set, worth a total of S$294.70, by taking them from the display shelves and leaving the store without paying.
Suspect Apprehended with CCTV Aid
Using CCTV footage and quick investigative work, officers identified the man and located him still within the transit area. He was apprehended before he could board a departing flight. Further checks revealed that he had also allegedly stolen a bottle of perfume worth S$153.10 from another Shilla store in the airport earlier that day.
All five stolen items were successfully recovered by the police.
Charged with Theft in Dwelling
The suspect is scheduled to be charged in court on 1 July 2025 with theft in dwelling under Section 380 of the Penal Code 1871. If found guilty, he faces up to 7 years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both.
Police Warn Against Shoplifting Attempts
In a statement, the Singapore Police Force stressed that they take a serious view of shop theft and will act decisively against offenders. The Police cautioned would-be thieves that attempting to evade arrest by quickly boarding a flight will not help them escape justice, as authorities remain vigilant and work closely with airport stakeholders to deter such crimes.
The swift response in this case underscores Changi Airport’s robust security measures and the effectiveness of collaboration between law enforcement and airport retailers in protecting businesses and travellers.
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