Man arrested for shop theft at Woodlands supermarket, more than $21k worth of stolen items recovered

A 23-year-old man has been arrested for his suspected involvement in a case of theft in dwelling.

The police said in a statement that they received a report of shop theft at a supermarket along Woodlands Street 13 on July 30 at about 3.45pm.

Officers identified the man and arrested him within two hours of the report.

Purported stolen items worth more than $21,000 were recovered from the man's residence.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the man is currently also undergoing court proceedings for other similar cases of shop theft.

He will be charged with theft in dwelling which carries a jail term of up to seven years and a fine.

Police investigations are ongoing.

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

The police will continue to work closely with stakeholders and the community to prevent and deter cases of shop theft.

The police remind retailers to remain vigilant against shop thieves, especially when large crowds are expected.

Retailers are advised to adopt the following measures:

1. Ensure a good line of sight for the displays by using an appropriate shop layout;

2. Display advisory posters or signage against shop theft;

3. Display expensive merchandise in locked showcases or at prominent locations (eg. near cashier counters);

4. Install CCTVs with recording systems at the entrance/exit of the store to capture the facial features of the shoppers; and

5. Deploy adequate security personnel to patrol the premises in luminous vests for deterrence.