Passengers travelling on buses in Johor Bahru and other parts of Malaysia have reportedly raised concerns over alleged pickpocket activity targeting Singaporeans, foreign workers, and elderly Malaysians.
According to Chinese-language daily Sin Chew Daily, regular commuters claimed the suspected pickpockets have been operating for years and are already familiar figures to frequent bus passengers.
Several commuters alleged that the suspects often work in groups of three to five people and board crowded buses together. They are said to use backpacks or large bags to shield their movements while attempting to steal valuables such as mobile phones, wallets, and passports from unsuspecting passengers.
One commuter reportedly told Sin Chew Daily that passengers who attempted to alert victims or confront the suspects were allegedly warned to “mind their own business”.
The incidents have once again sparked safety concerns among Singaporeans travelling across the Causeway, especially during weekends and public holidays when Johor shopping malls and transport services become heavily crowded. With increasing cross-border travel for shopping, entertainment, and financial services, many commuters are carrying cash, passports, and expensive mobile devices, making them attractive targets for theft.
Suspects Allegedly Dress Well To Avoid Attention
A 52-year-old commuter identified only as Fang reportedly shared that the alleged pickpockets usually appear well-dressed, often wearing caps and carrying backpacks to blend in with regular passengers.
She claimed the groups are most active during weekends and festive periods when tourist traffic from Singapore rises sharply. According to Fang, the suspects would allegedly conceal their hands behind a backpack before quietly removing valuables from victims’ pockets or bags when attention is diverted.
Fang also recounted her own close encounter with the alleged thieves. She said she nearly lost her belongings during one bus journey but realised what was happening in time and reacted immediately. Since then, she has become more vigilant whenever travelling on buses in Johor.
Another commuter, a 62-year-old man identified as Wen, reportedly said his passport was stolen from his trouser pocket around five years ago while travelling alone on a bus between 7pm and 8pm.
Wen stated that he later lodged a police report over the incident. Other passengers also alleged that such crimes were not limited to short-distance routes, claiming that pickpockets sometimes operated on longer intercity bus journeys as well.
Authorities Say Investigations Underway
Following media reports about the alleged incidents, the chief operating officer of the Johor Public Transport Authority reportedly said no official complaints regarding bus pickpocketing had previously been received.
However, after learning about the allegations, the authority contacted the relevant bus operator and requested for onboard surveillance footage to be reviewed as part of investigations.
The operator is expected to follow up on the matter to determine whether criminal activity had taken place on the buses mentioned by commuters.
The reports have also prompted online discussions among Singaporeans who frequently visit Johor Bahru for shopping, dining, and affordable services. Many advised travellers to avoid placing passports or wallets in easily accessible pockets, especially on crowded buses or during peak travel hours.
Commuters are also encouraged to remain alert when travelling with backpacks, handbags, or expensive electronic devices, particularly during long queues and crowded boarding situations near transport hubs connecting Singapore and Malaysia.