Police nab man suspected of snatching necklace from elderly woman

A man was arrested on suspicion of snatching a necklace from an 88-year-old woman. PHOTO: ST FILE

SINGAPORE - A man suspected of snatching a necklace from an 88-year-old woman has been arrested.

The victim reported at 12.05am on Sept 10 that her necklace was snatched by an unknown man at Block 120, Marsiling Rise.

Using images from police cameras, the police identified the 30-year-old suspect and arrested him on Thursday (Sept 22).

If convicted of snatch theft, he can be jailed between one year and seven years, and may also be caned.

The police has advised members of public to adopt the following measures to avoid falling prey to snatch theft:

Avoid walking through dimly lit, quiet and secluded places;

Always be alert and attentive to your surroundings. If you suspect that you are being followed, remain calm and proceed to a crowded area or call the police for assistance;

Avoid wearing excessive jewellery or carrying large sums of cash;

Carry your sling bag in front of you, or clasp it firmly under your arm;

When returning home alone or late at night, arrange for a family member or trusted friend to escort you home;

Carry a shrill alarm to sound for help;

When entering the lift alone, stay close to the lift button panel. Press "Door Open" and step out immediately when a stranger rushes in as the lift door is closing;

If you are confronted by a thief, stay calm and take note of his or her appearance, attire, height, or any other distinctive physical features if possible. Call the police as soon as possible so that our officers can reach the location quickly to assist you.

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