A man was caught on closed-circuit television allegedly stealing multiple pieces of a woman’s underwear from a Housing and Development Board (HDB) block in Yishun, sparking unease among nearby residents and prompting a police investigation.
The incident reportedly took place in the early evening at a common staircase landing within the estate. According to information shared by a resident speaking on behalf of the victim, a total of five items of female underwear were taken during the incident. The garments had been hung out to dry on a communal laundry rack, a common sight in many HDB neighbourhoods across Singapore.
Footage from the CCTV camera shows a man dressed in a light-coloured long-sleeve top and trousers approaching the laundry rack directly. He appeared to move with purpose, heading straight for the underwear without hesitation. As he removed the items, he was seen glancing around repeatedly, seemingly checking whether anyone was nearby before leaving the area with the garments.
Repeated incidents raise concern in the neighbourhood
What has alarmed residents further is that this was reportedly not an isolated case. The victim had discovered that one piece of her underwear went missing about a week earlier, prior to the installation of the CCTV cameras. At that time, there was no visual evidence to confirm what had happened, leading to lingering uncertainty and discomfort.
In response to the earlier disappearance, CCTV cameras were installed around the staircase landing. Less than a day after the cameras were put in place, the latest incident occurred, this time capturing clear footage of the alleged theft. The sequence of events has left the victim feeling unsettled and more cautious about her personal safety within what is typically considered a secure public housing environment.
Incidents involving theft in residential estates, especially those of an intimate nature, often heighten anxiety among residents. In densely populated HDB estates where shared spaces are unavoidable, such cases can have a wider impact on community confidence and perceptions of home security.
Police investigation underway as residents stay alert
Following the incident, a police report was lodged. The Singapore Police Force has confirmed that the case is under investigation. No further details have been released at this stage, but investigations into similar neighbourhood incidents typically involve reviewing CCTV footage and canvassing nearby residents for additional information.
Cases like this highlight the importance of home security measures, such as CCTV systems, motion sensors and improved lighting in common areas. With rising interest in residential security solutions and smart home technology in Singapore, more households are investing in surveillance systems to protect both property and personal safety.
While incidents of underwear theft are relatively uncommon, they tend to attract strong public reaction due to the personal violation involved. Residents in the area are advised to remain vigilant, secure their belongings where possible, and report any suspicious behaviour promptly. As investigations continue, the community hopes for a swift resolution and reassurance that their neighbourhood remains a safe place to live.