Snatch thief arrested within 24 hours

SINGAPORE - The police have arrested a 22-year-old man for suspected involvement in a case of snatch theft committed in the vicinity of Moh Guan Terrace.

On Jan 5, at around 5.15 am, the 39-year-old female victim was walking at the void deck along Moh Guan Terrace when an unknown man snatched her handbag and fled. She gave chase but lost sight of him along Kim Tian Road.

Officers from the Central Police Division conducted a search in the vicinty and established the suspect's identity using images captured by police cameras (POLCAM) and descriptions provided by the victim. The suspect was arrested along Jalan Bukit Merah the following day at 3am.

If convicted of snatch theft, the suspect faces a maximum jail term of seven years, and will also be liable for caning.

In addition, the police reminds members of the public to adopt the following measures against snatch theft:

- Avoid taking shortcuts through dark alleys or secluded areas.

- Be alert and attentive to your surroundings. If you suspect that you are being followed, remain calm and proceed to a more crowded area or call the police for help.

- Avoid wearing excessive jewellery or carrying large sums of cash.

- Clutch your handbag tightly under your arm and sling its strap across your body while walking, especially in crowded places like shopping centres and markets.

- Carry your handbag on the side that is not facing the traffic to prevent snatch theft from motorists.

- Arrange for someone to escort you home when returning home alone or late at night.

- Carry a shrill alarm with you and use it to scare off the suspect or to attract the attention of other members of public.

minlee@sph.com.sg