A shop worker in Singapore has come forward online after a customer allegedly avoided payment for an LCD repair by pretending to withdraw money from an ATM before disappearing.
According to the staff member, the incident occurred on 3 September 2025 at about 7.54pm. The man, described as an “uncle,” had his device repaired at the shop. After the work was completed, he claimed he needed to head to the ATM to withdraw cash for the bill. However, he never returned, leaving the shop with an outstanding payment.
The worker, who stressed that he was “just an employee,” explained that the shop has not immediately filed a police report out of respect for the man, but CCTV footage of the incident has been preserved. He added that if the payment is not settled soon, the matter will be escalated to the authorities.
Online Reactions Call for Swift Action
The case quickly gained attention on social media after the worker shared his frustration. Many commenters criticised the shop for releasing the repaired device before payment was received, pointing out that businesses should protect themselves by requesting upfront deposits or only returning items after full payment.
Others urged the shop to waste no more time and lodge a police report, emphasising that dishonesty should not be tolerated. Some suggested the man may be suffering from memory loss or medical conditions, but the majority still believed that official action was the best way forward.
Netizens also reminded businesses that with Singapore’s extensive CCTV network, such cases are often traceable and offenders may face criminal charges for cheating.
Businesses Warned to Tighten Policies
Incidents like this highlight the risks service providers face when trust is misplaced. Consumer protection experts note that shops handling high-value electronics should implement stricter payment rules, such as requiring deposits or verifying identification before repairs are released.
If a police report is eventually filed, the case could fall under cheating offences, which carry serious penalties under Singapore law.
For now, the shop is appealing for the man or anyone who knows him to step forward and settle the outstanding payment before legal consequences follow.