Two foreigners arrested over multiple thefts at Changi Airport

A 35-year-old man and 30-year-old woman, both American nationals, have been arrested for their suspected involvement in multiple cases of theft in Changi Airport's transit area.

The police were notified of the thefts, which took place on June 23, by staff members of The Shilla Cosmetics & Perfumes outlet at the airport's Terminal 1, the police said on July 22.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the man had allegedly taken three bottles of perfume worth a total of $488, and exited the store without paying. The missing bottles of perfume were later discovered by the outlet's staff during their stock-take.

According to the police, follow-up investigations by the airport police division uncovered the identities of the duo, who were arrested before they could leave Singapore. Police did not say when the suspects were nabbed.

The man was also found to have stolen a cardholder worth $596.33 from another retail outlet in Terminal 1, and a bottle of perfume worth $158.40 from another Shilla outlet in the transit area of Terminal 3, while the woman purportedly acted as a lookout.

All five stolen items were recovered from the duo, who are expected to be charged on July 23, the police said.

The police said they take a serious view of shop theft cases and offenders will be dealt with firmly in accordance with the law.

"Offenders should not think that they can evade capture by quickly boarding a flight. The police will continue to work closely with stakeholders to prevent and deter shop theft cases," they said.