A 38-year-old man is expected to be charged in court on Tuesday (Oct 20) after allegedly stealing a wedding ang bao box containing about $2,000 in cash from a hotel along Beach Road in Singapore.
The police said they received a report of the theft at around 9.15pm on Saturday (Oct 17). The man allegedly took a box containing red packets, commonly known as ang baos, from a wedding reception.
Officers from the Central Police Division conducted ground inquiries and reviewed closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage to establish the suspect’s identity. He was arrested on Sunday (Oct 18), one day after the alleged incident.
The man is expected to face a charge of theft in dwelling. If convicted, he could be jailed for up to seven years and fined.
Police Urge Public to Safeguard Valuables
The police reminded members of the public to remain vigilant and keep their valuables secure, particularly during celebrations and in crowded places.
Wedding receptions often involve cash gifts placed in designated boxes or at registration tables, which can become vulnerable if left unattended.
The case comes amid continued concerns about theft in Singapore. In its mid-year crime brief released on Aug 24, police reported 730 cases of theft in dwelling in the first half of 2026, compared with 726 cases during the same period in 2025.
Authorities have urged the public to take precautions to prevent theft and report suspicious activity promptly.
