70-year-old woman arrested for alleged involvement in pickpocketing cases on Yishun Ring Road

SINGAPORE – A 70-year-old woman was arrested on June 15 in connection with a series of pickpocketing cases at a market and food center on Yishun Ring Road.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the woman allegedly collected wallets from people whose bags were open, took the cash, and then threw the wallets nearby, police said in a June 16 news release.

Between July 24, 2023 and June 13, police received several reports from victims claiming their wallets had gone missing near the Yishun Ring Road.

Through CCTV and police camera footage, as well as ground investigations, officers from the Woodlands Police Division identified the woman and arrested her on June 15.

The woman is also believed to be involved in other similar crimes, police said.

She will be charged in court on June 17 for theft, they said. The offense is punishable by imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both.

Citizens are advised to protect their property and be vigilant against pickpockets, specifies the police, who also offer these reminders:

• Take care of your belongings at all times
• Be careful when approached by strangers who try to approach you
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing too much jewelry in crowded places.
• Make sure your bag is closed at all times and place it in front of your body.
• Avoid putting your wallet in your back pocket
• Dial 999 for urgent assistance