In 2024, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) reported an increase in shoplifting and voyeurism cases, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding physical crime in the country. With the shop thefts comprising a significant 21.2 per cent of all reported crimes, the community’s vigilance will be pivotal in addressing these trends.
Shop Theft Statistics
The data reveals that shoplifting incidents surged by 7.6 per cent, raising the total cases from 3,939 in 2023 to 4,237 in 2024. This year’s figure represents the highest level recorded in recent years:
- 2021: 2,652 cases
- 2022: 3,244 cases
- 2023: 3,939 cases
- 2024: 4,237 cases
Interestingly, the total number of physical crime cases saw minimal change—19,969 cases compared to 19,966 in 2023. The primary offenders in these shop thefts tend to be younger individuals, with those aged between 10 and 19 accounting for 20.9 per cent of arrests.
CCTV Technology and Theft Prevention
The rise in theft cases may partly be attributed to retailers increasingly adopting CCTV technology, which enhances detection capabilities. This technological edge enables retailers to spot thefts that might have previously gone unnoticed. Police reports suggest offenders, even if escaping immediate capture, face repercussions in the long run due to advancements in identification technology.
Reducing Voyeurism Cases
Voyeurism cases also saw a 9 per cent rise, from 476 cases in 2023 to 519 cases in 2024. Most of these incidents occurred in:
- Residential premises: 162 cases
- Shopping complexes: 80 cases
- Public transport: 69 cases
In the case of residential locations, a significant portion involved perpetrators known to the victims, such as current or ex-boyfriends, or household members.
Community Engagement Initiatives
To combat rising crime rates, SPF is actively engaging the youth through various initiatives. These include:
- School talks in collaboration with the Ministry of Education
- Community outreach via the Coffee with a Cop initiative
- Workshops focused on crime prevention at local spots
Moreover, the Shop Theft Awareness for Retailers (STAR) programme, which has attracted over 1,000 retail partners, aims to enhance security measures and coordinate efforts to deter theft.
Outrage of Modesty and Other Crimes
Meanwhile, cases of outrage of modesty declined by 6.6 per cent, offering respite in an otherwise alarming crime landscape. Yet, they still accounted for 7.1 per cent of total physical crime. Intense public awareness campaigns will continue to be essential in maintaining low crime rates.
As we reflect on these statistics, the SPF urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, fostering a collaborative environment in maintaining Singapore’s status as one of the safest countries in the world.