An ordinary morning shift took a shocking turn for a cleaner working near a coffee shop at Block 450 Clementi Avenue 3, after they discovered a suspicious black suitcase left unattended near the lift lobby.
Curious and concerned that the item had been left behind for an extended period, the cleaner opened the suitcase — only to find it crammed with what appeared to be over 70 packets of cigarettes, raising immediate suspicions that they were duty-unpaid contraband,  Shin Min Daily News reported.
The incident, which happened on June 24 at about 8am, was first reported by Shin Min Daily News and has since drawn widespread public attention.
Suspected Contraband Cigarettes Seized by Authorities
The cleaner, clearly startled by the unusual find, quickly alerted their supervisor. The coffee shop employee later shared that the police were notified promptly. Shortly after, customs enforcement officers and police arrived at the scene to investigate the contents and secure the area.
Photos from the scene showed officers carefully examining the suitcase and counting the packs inside. The entire suitcase was then wheeled away for further investigation. No individuals came forward to claim ownership of the luggage, and no arrests have been made as of the latest update.
The cigarettes are believed to be illegal contraband — likely smuggled into Singapore without the payment of required duties and taxes.
Harsh Penalties in Singapore for Duty-Unpaid Goods
Under Singapore’s Customs Act, the possession, sale, or delivery of duty-unpaid goods — including cigarettes — is a serious offence. Offenders can be fined up to 40 times the amount of duty and GST evaded, or sentenced to jail for up to six years, or both. These strict laws are part of Singapore’s zero-tolerance stance on illegal cigarette smuggling.
This case adds to a growing number of discoveries involving smuggled tobacco products being abandoned or hidden in public places, possibly as a way for smugglers to evade detection. The use of coffee shop corridors and residential areas for such drop-offs raises concerns about the safety and misuse of public spaces.
Public Urged to Remain Vigilant and Report Suspicious Items
Authorities continue to encourage the public to remain alert and report any unattended bags or suspicious activity, especially in high-traffic areas like MRT stations, coffee shops, and void decks. Anyone with information on such illegal activities is urged to contact the Singapore Customs hotline or the police.
The Clementi suitcase case serves as a reminder that Singapore’s vigilance against contraband and smuggling remains strong, and community awareness plays a key role in keeping illegal goods off the streets.
Image Source: Â Shin Min Daily NewsÂ