Two Chinese Men Arrested After Returning To Singapore Over Alleged Balestier Temple Break-In
Two Chinese nationals were arrested after returning to Singapore, around four months after they allegedly broke into a temple in Balestier and stole cash from donation boxes.
The suspects, aged 43 and 50, were arrested on Sunday (Aug. 16), according to the Singapore Police Force. They had allegedly committed the offence at about 12.30am on Apr. 2 before leaving Singapore on the same day.
The incident took place at a temple along Tai Gin Road, where between S$300 and S$400 in cash was reportedly taken from donation boxes.
Police investigations later identified the two men through follow-up probes and the use of closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage.
Suspects Allegedly Used Improvised Tool To Take Cash
Preliminary investigations found that the two men allegedly gained access to the donation boxes using a card attached with adhesive tape, which was used to remove the cash.
The police did not disclose how the suspects were traced after leaving Singapore, but officers from the Tanglin Police Division managed to establish their identities during investigations.
Authorities later arrested the pair when they returned to Singapore, highlighting how suspects who leave the country after allegedly committing offences may still be tracked and apprehended through ongoing investigations.
The two men are expected to be charged in court with housebreaking and theft with common intention.
Offence Carries Potential Jail Term Of Up To 10 Years
If convicted of the offence, the suspects could face a jail term of up to 10 years and may also be fined.
Under Singapore law, housebreaking and theft are treated as serious offences, particularly when premises are unlawfully entered with the intention of stealing property.
The police have continued to remind members of the public and businesses to take appropriate security measures, including installing surveillance systems and securing valuable items, to prevent property-related offences.
The case remains before the courts, and the allegations against the two men have not been proven at this stage. All accused persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.