11 people arrested for shop theft
AsiaOne
Wednesday, Jan 16, 2013
SINGAPORE - Police have arrested 11 people for shop theft at shopping malls along Orchard Road in the first 14 days of the year.
The suspects, aged 16 to 78, were arrested for stealing a range of retail items costing between $6.90 and $390.
As part of Police's crime prevention and community outreach efforts, Tanglin Police Division has been working closely with retailers to deter and detect theft in their outlets.
Many retailers have enhanced their security measures through the installation of CCTV cameras and by providing better training for their staff.
These measures have proved very successful for several retailers, in particular Paragon Market Place.
The outlet's effective detection capability has led to the arrest of 9 shop theft suspects in Dec 2012 and 6 in the first 2 weeks of Jan 2013.
The Police would like to take this opportunity to remind the public that the offence of shop theft is a serious one.
The offence of shop theft is punishable with an imprisonment term of up to 7 years and a fine.
Retailers are advised to take the following measures against shop theft:
a) Display expensive items in locked display shelves which are only accessible by the staff;
b) Avoid displaying expensive items near the store's entry and exit points. They should be placed at strategic locations where they can be monitored by staff or placed under CCTV surveillance. Use empty boxes and cans for expensive items placed near the entry and exit points;
c) Enhance the store's security system by installing CCTVs and convex mirrors. Ensure that the cameras are in good working condition;
d) Use an electronic tagging system;
e) Display advisory signage or warnings against shop theft; and
f) Advise all staff to be observant and vigilant.
