In a recent report released by the Singapore Police Force (SPF), 2025 saw a troubling 7.3 per cent increase in molestation cases, totaling 1,531 incidents compared to 1,427 in 2024. This spike poses serious questions about safety in Singapore, especially in public spaces.
Overview of Crime Statistics
The overall crime landscape in Singapore also reflected a notable rise, with total physical crime cases climbing to 20,857—an increase of 4.4 per cent from the previous year. Among these, molestation and theft in dwelling were highlighted as significant concerns.
- Molestation Cases: 1,531 (7.3% increase)
- Theft in Dwelling: 1,500 (0.9% decrease)
- Shop Theft: 4,109 (3% decrease)
- Voyeurism: 486 (6.4% decrease)
Top Locations for Molestation Incidents
Of the reported molestation cases:
- 372 occurred in residential premises.
- 164 took place on public transport.
- 115 were reported in public entertainment venues.
Interestingly, shopping complexes saw a decrease in such incidents, from 135 in 2024 to 103 in 2025.
Profile of Offenders and Victims
More than half of the molestation cases in 2025 involved offenders known to the victims. The police urged the public to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas, and report any suspicious behaviour immediately to help deter potential culprits.
Crime Prevention Initiatives
The SPF continues to roll out various initiatives to tackle rising crime rates:
- The Shop Theft Awareness for Retailers (STAR) programme aims to improve theft prevention measures across over 1,100 retail outlets.
- Collaborations with the Ministry of Education are bringing crime awareness initiatives into schools.
Moreover, Watsons has started to explore artificial intelligence to enhance security at its stores, reflecting a proactive approach to mitigating theft risk.
Looking Ahead
While Singapore maintains its reputation as one of the world’s safest cities, the recent uptick in certain crime categories serves as a reminder that constant vigilance and community efforts are essential in maintaining safety for all residents.