A young man has been caught on surveillance footage allegedly stealing a high-end ASUS power supply unit, worth approximately S$1,079, from Bizgram Asia, a well-known computer hardware retailer located at Sim Lim Square. The suspected shoplifting incident took place on Jul. 1, 2025, prompting the shop owner to lodge an official police report. The case has since drawn attention within the tech retail community, highlighting concerns over repeated thefts at the popular electronics hub.
Bizgram Asia shared that the youth’s modus operandi involved entering the store pretending to browse, before discreetly attempting to walk out with valuable computer parts. Shop owners in Sim Lim Square said that they have observed similar suspicious behaviour from the same individual over recent weeks, raising alarms among the tight-knit group of retailers.
Shop Owners on High Alert After Series of Incidents
To enhance retail security, multiple shop owners at Sim Lim Square have been actively sharing information through a collective WhatsApp group chat. This group serves as an informal security network, where shopkeepers promptly notify each other about suspicious individuals or attempted thefts. Several merchants reported encountering the same young man who allegedly tried to leave with pricey items, leading to a heightened state of alert among the stores.
In the latest incident, Bizgram Asia staff initially failed to realise that the ASUS power supply had gone missing. Fortunately, an observant store owner in another unit recognised the youth from previous encounters and quickly alerted other shopkeepers. Acting on the tip-off, Bizgram Asia staff began searching their shop and surrounding areas.
Stolen Item Found Abandoned Near Public Toilet
Shortly after the alert was circulated, another shopkeeper reported discovering the box containing the stolen power supply. The packaging was found partially opened and abandoned outside the building’s public toilet. The recovered item was promptly returned to Bizgram Asia, averting a significant financial loss for the retailer.
In response to the incident, Bizgram Asia has upgraded its store security by installing a new smart camera system capable of facial recognition and advanced motion tracking. These enhanced measures aim to prevent future incidents and give shop owners greater peace of mind as they continue operating in one of Singapore’s busiest electronics malls.
Police Investigating as Shop Owners Call for Deterrence
The police have confirmed that a report has been filed, and investigations into the alleged theft are ongoing. Bizgram Asia has expressed that while they seek accountability, their priority is deterrence rather than harsh punishment. The store owner said they hope the youth will voluntarily step forward and accept responsibility, adding that ensuring a secure retail environment is crucial so merchants can focus on serving their customers without constant fear of shoplifting.
The repeated nature of the incidents underscores the importance of robust retail security strategies in high-traffic areas like Sim Lim Square. Retailers are encouraged to remain vigilant and invest in modern security solutions to protect their businesses and maintain customer confidence.