Police have arrested a 27 year-old man who is believed to be involved in a case of snatch theft in Sembawang estate.

On 28 August 2010 at about 7.10 am, a woman reported to the Police that her purse containing her handphone, cash and some cards had been snatched by an unknown man at the void deck of Block 472 Sembawang Drive. Following the report, officers from Ang Mo Kio Police Division worked relentlessly on the case. Through extensive ground enquiries and follow-up investigations, the identity of the suspect was established.

On 4 September 2010 at around 7.00 am, officers who were conducting an ambush operation in the Sembawang area saw their efforts pay off when the suspect finally appeared. The officers then moved in and placed the suspect under arrest. Upon his arrest, a pen-knife, several handphones and 2 handbags were found and seized from his possession.

The suspect will be charged in the Subordinate Court 26 on 6 September 2010 for an offence of Snatch Theft under Section 356 of the Penal Code, Chapter 224, which carries a maximum punishment of 7 years imprisonment and caning.

Commander of Ang Mo Kio Police Division, Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Police Hsu Sin Yun, commended his officers for their perseverance and excellent investigative follow-up which led to the arrest of the suspect. He also advised members of the public to be wary of their surroundings when walking alone. If confronted, members of the public should take note of the physical appearance and distinctive features of the suspect, and call for the Police as soon as possible.