The Police have arrested a 49-year-old man on 2 March 2010 who is believed to be responsible for at least 2 cases of lift robberies involving female victims.
On 28 February 2010 , a 27-year-old woman was entering the lift at Block 501 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 5 when an unknown man suddenly dashed in behind her. While inside the lift, the man pulled out a sharp pointed object and used it to rob the victim of her handphone. He then fled when the lift door opened. The victim subsequently reported the incident to the Police on the same day.
Following extensive enquiries and follow-up investigations, officers from Ang Mo Kio Police Division managed to establish the identity of the suspect. An ambush was immediately mounted and the suspect was swiftly arrested at his residence in Ang Mo Kio on 2 March 2010 . The stolen handphone and a sewing seam ripper were recovered and seized as case exhibits. Preliminary investigation indicated that the suspect is believed to be involved in another similar case of lift robbery in December 2009.
The suspect will be charged in Court on 4 March 2010 for Robbery which carries a maximum of 14 years imprisonment.
Commander of Ang Mo Kio Police Division, Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Police Hsu Sin Yun, commended his officers for their excellent investigative work and perseverance leading to the successful arrest of the suspect. He would also like to advise members of the public on the following crime prevention measures:
Avoid taking the same lift with suspicious persons;
When taking the lift alone, stand beside the lift control panel and press the 'DOOR OPEN' button to exit immediately if any suspicious person rushes in; and
Should you become a victim of crime, please do not resist but take note of the description of the culprit, e.g. his appearance, height, physical details, attire, and the direction and mode of escape. Call the Police as soon as it is safe to do so.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE 03 Mar 2010 @ 11.30am
