Man’s $155,600 cash stolen after escalator collision

The suspects are Luzano Wendel Adarna, 57; Villaranda Juvy Santua, 53; Silvestre Jocelyn Marquez, 31; Almienda Katrina Mae, 53; and Abellar Remy Jones, 36.

Court documents state that six people were allegedly involved in stealing $155,600 from the victim at about 1.25pm on Saturday at the underground walkway near Tang Plaza.

The five arrested suspects were remanded after being charged, with the case adjourned to Oct 2.

A sixth suspect, who has not been arrested, is believed to have left Singapore.

If convicted of conspiracy to steal, the five suspects can be jailed for up to three years, fined, or both.

Police said they have zero tolerance for such brazen criminal activity and will spare no effort to track down those involved and bring them to justice.

Members of the public who encounter similar incidents are advised to remain calm, take note of the suspects’ appearance and other identifying features, and report the matter to police as soon as possible.

Underground walkway near more than 15 money changers

The incident happened in a busy underground walkway near more than 15 money changers.

When Shin Min Daily News visited the area, there was a steady stream of people using the walkway during lunchtime. The underground passage also provides access to Lucky Plaza.

The Chinese language daily reported that the victim had exchanged money at a money changer in Lucky Plaza.

It could not be ruled out that the suspects had been waiting in the area and looking for a potential target before the incident.

Dean (transliterated), 50, an employee at one of the money changers, said customers exchanging more than $5,000 are required to show their passport or identity card.

Staff also remind customers to be careful and avoid displaying large amounts of cash in public.

Another money changer employee, Fidus (transliterated), 38, said most money changers have CCTV cameras installed, although he had not noticed anyone suspicious in the area recently.

Editor’s note: We have replaced the original cover image, which incorrectly showed a storefront that was not involved in the incident. We apologise for the error.

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