A man lost around S$155,600 in cash after he was allegedly surrounded and bumped into by several people at an underpass along Orchard Road.
Five Filipino nationals, comprising one man and four women aged between 31 and 57, were arrested by the Singapore Police Force (SPF) in connection with the case.
The incident happened on 25 September 2026, shortly after the victim had exchanged currency at a money changer. He subsequently entered an underpass near Tang Plaza at around 1.40pm.
Victim discovered haversack had been unzipped
As the man approached the bottom of an escalator, several unknown individuals bumped into him.
It was only later that he realised his haversack had been unzipped and that a large amount of cash was missing.
Police were alerted and officers from Tanglin Police Division began investigations into the reported theft.
CCTV footage and images from police cameras were reviewed as part of the investigation, allowing officers to identify five individuals believed to be involved.
All five suspects were arrested on the same day.
About S$152,800 recovered by police
Police recovered and seized approximately S$152,800 in cash as evidence.
This means around S$2,800 of the reported S$155,600 remains unaccounted for.
The five suspects were subsequently charged in court on 26 September with theft with common intention.
Under Singapore’s Penal Code 1871, when multiple people commit an offence while acting towards a common intention, each person can be held liable for the act as though they had committed it individually.
If convicted of the offence, each accused person may face up to three years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both.
Police urge public to stay alert
The SPF said it would not tolerate what it described as “brazen” criminal acts and would continue its efforts to identify and apprehend those involved.
Members of the public are advised to remain alert when carrying large amounts of cash, particularly in crowded public areas.
Anyone who encounters a suspicious incident should try to take note of the person’s physical appearance and any distinctive features, while contacting the police for assistance as soon as possible.
The case remains before the courts, and the five individuals are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.