Police arrest serial thief who targeted vehicles in Jurong East

SINGAPORE - Police have arrested a 46-year-old man believed to be involved in a series of theft from vehicle cases in Jurong East.

Between early Oct and late Dec 2014, a spate of theft from vehicle cases were reported at car parks in Jurong East. In these cases, the suspect had apparently smashed the windows of the vehicles to steal cash cards, and statues and pendants which were prominently displayed on the dashboards.

Following the reports, Crime Strike Force officers from Jurong East Neighbourhood Centre conducted extensive follow-up investigations. The officers managed to establish the identity of the suspect and he was subsequently arrested on Dec 29, 2014 in the vicinity of Penjuru Road.

Preliminary investigations reveal that the suspect is believed to be involved in at least five cases of vehicle theft in the Jurong East estate.

The suspect will be charged in court on Dec 31, 2014 for the offence of Theft from Vehicle under Section 379 of the Penal Code Chapter 224, which carries a maximum jail term of three years imprisonment, or with fine or both.

stephluo@sph.com.sg