Over 350 youths investigated for shop theft in S'pore in 1st half 2026, nearly 30% increase from previous year

The number of young people who were investigated for shop theft has increased.

More than 350 youths were investigated for shop theft in Singapore in the first half of 2026, nearly 30 per cent more than in the same period last year, CNA reported.

Shop theft, said the Singapore Police Force (SPF) in their Mid-Year Crime Brief, remains one of the top offences committed by youths.

Shop theft, which accounted for about 20.4 per cent of all physical crime cases in the first half of this year, is also increasing.

There were 2,095 cases reported, up 2.2 per cent from 2,050 in the same period last year.

Where it happens & what gets taken

Items that were typically stolen included food and drinks, personal care products, alcoholic drinks, and clothing and accessories.

Most shop theft cases involving youths took place at supermarkets, convenience stores, minimarts, and personal care and health and wellness shops.

It is not always about money

Why do youths commit shop theft offences?

Experts who spoke to CNA pointed to peer pressure, bullying, and emotional distress—issues that can be exacerbated by social media.

Narasimman Tivasiha Mani, executive director of Impart, an organisation that supports youths, told CNA:

"It is an external expression of adversity, trauma, or structural gaps that they are facing. Youths steal to gain social capital among their peers. Sometimes, they cope with their internal emotional distress or to cover basic needs when there is instability at home."

Catching offenders only goes so far

Retailers turn to technology such as facial recognition cameras and AI-enabled detection systems to deter thieves, but teaching youths why it is wrong might be a better way.

Hana Alhadad, a council member of the National Crime Prevention Council, told CNA:

"Technology may help detect the crime after it has happened, but education helps prevent the behaviour before it starts. Ultimately, we want young people to make the right decision because they understand why it is wrong, not simply because they are just afraid of being caught."

Alhadad also warned that the act of stealing has to be addressed or else it might "blur the young person's understanding of boundaries" and put them on a path towards further offending.

Narasimman suggested creating third spaces for young people in the community where they can build social connections and meaningfully participate in activities.

Teaching it in schools

SPF said it is working with the Ministry of Education (MOE) to educate students on various crimes, including shop theft, through school talks and joint advisories.

A crime prevention module has been launched on the Singapore Student Learning Space for Primary 3 to 6 pupils, covering the legal consequences of shop theft.

SPF said it is working with MOE to expand the range of modules.