Police issue alert as ride-by snatch thefts hit 50 since Aug

At least 50 people have fallen victim to ride-by motorcycle snatch thieves in the past three and a half months. The latest is a Vietnamese woman in her early 20s, whose handbag was snatched while she was walking along Joo Chiat Road towards East Coast Road, at about 9.15pm on Tuesday.

A motorbike with two men on it zipped past her. The pillion rider grabbed her handbag, which contained $500 in cash, before the bike sped off. The pillion rider was wearing an orange helmet. The woman, who is here on a social visit pass, fell to the ground and hit her head. She was taken to hospital.

In the wake of the recent spate of ride-by snatch thefts and the upcoming festive season, the police advise pedestrians to avoid carrying excessive cash, valuables or jewellery. Be aware of the surroundings when you are walking along the road.

Sling your handbags in front of them or clutch the possessions under your arms, on the side further away from the road. As far as possible, walk on the pavement on the side of the road that is facing oncoming traffic. Those who suspect they are being trailed should move to the nearest crowded area or call the police for help.