Two teenagers, aged 15 and 17, were arrested within 10 hours after a minimart along Jalan Bukit Merah was reportedly broken into, with cash and hundreds of cigarette packets stolen.
The Singapore Police Force said officers received a report at around 7.15am on Oct 19 regarding a case of housebreaking and theft at the minimart.
About S$2,100 in cash and 290 packets of cigarettes, estimated to be worth S$3,000, were reported missing. The total value of the stolen items was approximately S$5,100.
Police Used CCTV Footage To Identify Suspects
Following the report, officers conducted ground enquiries and reviewed footage from police cameras and closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems to identify the suspects.
Their efforts led to the arrest of both teenagers within 10 hours of the incident being reported.
During the investigation, police recovered S$462 in cash and 203 packets of cigarettes. This accounted for part of the reported stolen items, although the authorities did not specify the whereabouts of the remaining cash and cigarette packets.
The swift arrests highlight how surveillance footage and police investigations can help officers identify suspects following reported property crimes.
Teenagers To Be Charged In Court
Both teenagers are expected to be charged in court on Oct 21 with housebreaking and theft with common intention under Section 451, read with Section 34 of the Penal Code 1871.
If convicted, they could face imprisonment of up to 10 years and a fine.
The case serves as a reminder that housebreaking and theft can carry serious