6-9-2024 (SINGAPORE) A British woman’s transit through Singapore’s Changi Airport took an unexpected turn as she embarked on a brazen theft spree, resulting in a court appearance and a substantial fine. Tanya Bridget Hughes, 36, found herself before a Singaporean judge on Thursday, facing the consequences of her actions.
Hughes, who was en route to Bali, utilised her layover at Terminal 4 to pilfer an array of items from various shops, amassing goods worth over S$600 (£350) in just under two hours. Her illicit haul included cosmetics, neck pillows, books, and even a handbag.
The court heard how Hughes methodically moved from shop to shop, beginning her spree at The Shilla Cosmetics and Perfumes Outlet. Here, she craftily concealed eye cream products valued at S$158 in her bag whilst paying for other items. Her next target was Charles & Keith, where she absconded with a black shoulder bag and pouch worth S$82.
Hughes’ shoplifting expedition continued unabated, with charges taken into consideration revealing thefts from WHSmith, 7-Eleven, and even The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Her crime spree came to an abrupt end when she was finally apprehended.
In court, the prosecution sought a fine of at least S$5,000, emphasising that this was already a lenient approach given the original charges could have resulted in mandatory jail time. The prosecutor highlighted the aggravating factors, including the multiple thefts and the difficulty in detecting such crimes in an airport setting.
Defence lawyer Jeremy Mark Pereira, from Withers KhattarWong, painted a picture of a remorseful client, stating that Hughes was “deeply embarrassed and sorry for her conduct”. He alluded to unspecified “issues” for which Hughes requires medication, and stressed her commitment to rehabilitation.
Deputy Principal District Judge Ong Chin Rhu, after considering both the circumstances and the extent of Hughes’ criminal conduct, concurred with the prosecution’s proposed fine. Hughes was ordered to pay S$5,000, which she promptly settled in full.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences that can arise from impulsive actions, even for tourists passing through. It underscores the stringent security measures in place at international transit hubs and the zero-tolerance approach to theft, regardless of the perpetrator’s background or intentions.
