A 63-year-old Singaporean man has been arrested for his alleged involvement in a housebreaking case at a retail outlet along Clementi Avenue 2. The incident occurred in the early hours of March 17, when police were alerted to a suspected break-in at approximately 2:30am.
Initial investigations indicated that the perpetrator had forced open the shop’s rear gate to gain unlawful entry. During the incident, an arowana fish valued at around S$1,400 was reported stolen. Police were able to identify the suspect through on-ground inquiries and footage from nearby surveillance cameras. Within 13 hours of the report, the man was taken into custody.
Unfortunately, the recovered arowana was found dead, despite being retrieved by authorities. The man is set to face court on March 18, charged with housebreaking with intent to commit theft. Under Singapore law, a conviction for this offence could result in up to 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine.
Police Remind Business Owners to Stay Vigilant
The police have issued guidance for all property owners to safeguard their premises, highlighting the importance of preventive measures. Shop owners are advised to secure doors, roller shutters, and windows with high-quality grilles and padlocks, even for short periods of absence.
It is also recommended to avoid leaving large sums of cash or valuable items on-site. Additional security measures, such as installing burglar alarms, motion-sensor lights, and CCTV cameras covering key access points, should be regularly checked to ensure proper functionality.
This incident serves as a reminder for businesses to prioritise security, particularly during off-hours, and underscores the role of surveillance and swift police response in deterring theft in Singapore.