Two Indian women transiting through Singapore’s Changi Airport were detained on June 2 for allegedly stealing luxury items from shops inside Terminal 3. The swift response by airport police, aided by CCTV surveillance, led to their arrest within an hour. The pair now face serious criminal charges under Singapore’s strict anti-theft laws.
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Transit Trouble: Theft Allegations Rock Indian Tourists at Changi Airport
Singapore’s world-renowned Changi Airport witnessed an unusual disruption on June 2, when two Indian women in transit were detained for allegedly stealing from duty-free outlets in the Terminal 3 departure area. According to a statement released by Singapore Police on June 9, the theft was reported around 2:25 p.m., prompting immediate action by the Airport Police Division.
Officers quickly reviewed surveillance footage and identified the suspects within an hour, a testament to Singapore’s high-surveillance, high-efficiency security model. The women were intercepted before boarding their connecting flight and subsequently searched. One was reportedly in possession of a purse, while the other had concealed a black haversack and a bottle of perfume in her luggage.
The stolen items were collectively valued at S$635 (approximately ₹30,000 or US$493), and the suspects were formally charged with theft in dwelling, a serious offence under Singaporean law.
Facing the Law: Seven-Year Jail Term Looms Over the Accused
Both women were scheduled to appear before a Singapore court on June 10. Under Singapore’s Penal Code, “theft in dwelling” carries a maximum penalty of seven years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both. Legal experts say that while the value of the stolen goods is relatively low, the location and nature of the crime, committed within an international transit hub, could result in a harsher sentence.
Singapore’s justice system is known for its zero-tolerance stance on crimes involving theft, drugs, and public misconduct, especially within high-security zones like airports. Legal proceedings are expected to move swiftly. Authorities have not disclosed whether the suspects have secured legal representation or if the Indian High Commission has been contacted.
Airport police did not specify if further investigations are underway into whether the women had shoplifted from additional stores or whether the June 2 incident was isolated.
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The incident has triggered reactions across social media in both India and Singapore, with netizens expressing embarrassment, anger, and calls for stricter travel ethics. Tourism authorities in India are reportedly concerned about the diplomatic implications, especially given the sensitivity around maintaining a good image abroad.
Incidents like these, though rare, highlight broader cultural clashes and gaps in awareness among travellers regarding international laws. Singapore, known for its strict codes of conduct, has previously issued public advisories warning visitors against infractions like littering, smoking in non-designated areas, and theft, however minor they may seem.
If the women are convicted, they may be permanently blacklisted from re-entering Singapore, in addition to serving prison time. Indian consular officials have yet to release a statement, but such cases often involve diplomatic coordination for legal aid and repatriation after sentencing.
About the author – Prakriti Jha is a student at National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar, currently pursuing B.Sc. LL.B (Hons.) with a keen interest in the intersection of law and data science. She is passionate about exploring how legal frameworks adapt to the evolving challenges of technology and justice.