In an unusual case that caught the attention of fruit lovers across Singapore, 56-year-old Sew Swee Chai was sentenced to nine weeks in jail for stealing nine Black Gold durians and three religious amulets.
The thefts occurred at the Fu Lu Shou Complex in Rochor. On September 6, 2024, driven by a midnight craving, Sew targeted a closed fruit stall at Bukit Batok East Avenue 4. CCTV footage showed him attempting to disable security cameras, but instead, he accidentally turned off the refrigerators. He then grabbed the durians, valued at around S$250 (US$195), and left unnoticed.
The next day, a stall assistant noticed the missing durians and reviewed the footage, leading to a police report and Sew’s identification.
Approximately two weeks later, Sew returned and tried to steal two religious amulets from the same location. He was caught in the act before stealing a third amulet, resulting in his arrest.
During court, prosecutors highlighted Sew’s prior convictions for burglary and theft. His lawyer explained Sew’s major depressive disorder and lack of medication during the incidents. The defense also noted that Sew is undergoing treatment and has made restitution for the stolen items.
Although sentenced to nine weeks, the court deferred his jail time to allow Sew to care for his 80-year-old mother, who is battling Stage 2 breast cancer. Sew is expected to begin serving his sentence on October 13.
