Beer, Debts And An Unlocked Door: How A Luxury Watch Theft Unfolded In Bartley
A 60-year-old Singaporean man has admitted to breaking into a private residence in Bartley and making off with nearly S$40,000 worth of property, including a luxury watch and cash.
The man, identified as Tan Sun Heng, pleaded guilty to one burglary-related charge in court, while another similar charge will be taken into consideration during sentencing.
Court documents revealed that the incident took place on the evening of Feb. 28, when Tan had been drinking at a coffee shop in the How Sun area near Bartley Road before wandering into a nearby residential estate.
According to the prosecution, Tan was facing financial difficulties at the time and was in urgent need of money to settle debts and cover his day-to-day expenses, Shin Min Daily News reported.
Searching For An Easy Target
Investigations showed that Tan initially attempted to enter one house but was unable to gain access due to a secured gate.
Not giving up, he continued walking through the neighbourhood until he came across another property where both the metal gate and main entrance door had been left unlocked.
Seeing an opportunity, Tan entered the residence without permission.
Inside the home, he allegedly found a wallet placed on a table and removed S$400 in cash. He also took an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak luxury watch valued at approximately S$38,900.
The total value of the stolen items exceeded S$39,000.
Domestic Helper’s Video Becomes Key Evidence
The burglary may have gone unnoticed for longer if not for the actions of a vigilant domestic helper living nearby.
The helper reportedly spotted Tan lingering around the property and found his behaviour unusual. Believing he could be a visitor or relative of the homeowners, she recorded a video of him.
When the homeowners returned later that evening, the helper approached them and showed the footage, asking whether they recognised the man.
After confirming that Tan was a complete stranger, the family immediately contacted the police.
The homeowner later shared that the incident prompted the family to improve security measures at the property, including installing additional locks on the outer gate.
Pawn Shop Refused The Luxury Watch
Following the burglary, Tan reportedly spent all of the stolen cash.
He later attempted to pawn the luxury watch at a shop in the Bencoolen area. However, the transaction was unsuccessful after the pawn shop declined to accept the timepiece.
Police investigations eventually led to his arrest.
During court proceedings, it was also revealed that Tan has a history of theft and burglary-related offences.
The court has ordered a suitability assessment before sentencing. The case is expected to return to court later this month, where the judge will decide on the appropriate punishment.
The case also serves as a reminder that even in Singapore’s generally safe environment, homeowners should ensure that gates, doors and other access points are properly secured, as criminals often look for easy opportunities rather than sophisticated ways to enter a property.
Image: Shin Min Daily News