Singapore Police arrested a 42 year-old snatcher on bicycle with the assistance of 2 teen-agers.

A 33 year-old woman was walking along Pasir Ris Drive 1 on December 26, 2010 at about 3.45pm when a man on a bicycle came from behind and snatched away her purse. The victim shouted for help and two 17 year-old youths who happened to be in the vicinity responded to her cries and went after the thief. After a short chase, the youths spotted the suspect running up a nearby block of flats at Pasir Ris St 11 and called for the police while keeping watch.

Officers from Bedok Police Division responded promptly and conducted a systematic search of the said block. The suspect was found hiding on the 9th floor and placed under arrest. The victim’s items were also successfully recovered from the suspect’s possession.

The suspect will be charged in court on 28 December 2010 for the 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 Bedok Police Division, Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Police Teo Chun Ching commended the 2 youths for their public-spiritedness and said, "This arrest showcases the importance and effectiveness of Police-community partnership in the fight against crime."

Crime Advisory: Increased Bicycle Theft Around Hougang Area

According to Hougang Neighborhood Police Centre, there has been an increasing bicycle theft reported around Hougang Public Housing Estate. Most of the thefts occurred around common public areas such as void decks and corridors.

Here are some of the preventions measures as advised by the Police:

• Keep your bicycle indoors when not in use. If not possible, secure it to a designated bicycle bay.
• Use durable locks made of 100% steel. "U-Locks" provides better protection compared to a chain or cable lock.
• Lock your bicycle at a well-lit place with high human traffic.

If you witness any crime or theft, report it by calling 999.