On Tuesday night (3 Dec), a break-in and theft occurred at Shinrai, a Japanese restaurant on Telok Ayer Street owned by local influencer Naomi Neo.
Source: @naomineo_ on Instagram
According to a police statement, officers were alerted to the theft at around 10.20pm, during which approximately S$3,400 in cash was stolen.
Following the incident, officers from the Central Police Division launched an investigation.
Using CCTV and police camera footage, they quickly identified the suspect.
Source: @naomineo_ on Instagram via AsiaOne
A 23-year-old man was arrested the next day, and S$2,400 of the stolen cash was recovered within 24 hours.
A representative from Shinrai confirmed the theft when contacted by Shin Min Daily News.
Ms Neo, known for occasionally playing pranks for content, took to Instagram to address rumours that the break-in was staged.
She shared footage from the restaurant’s security cameras, showing the suspect opening the cash register and taking a stack of cash.
“Wish this was [actually] a joke,” she wrote. “Thousands from the cash register gone.”
She added that she hoped the footage would clear “any doubt”.
The suspect has since been charged with housebreaking and theft under Section 451 of the Penal Code 1871, which carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison and a fine.
The police have reminded property owners to secure all doors, windows, and gates — even during short absences — and to avoid leaving large sums of cash or valuables unattended.
They also encouraged the installation of security alarms, motion-sensor lights, and CCTV cameras, ensuring these systems are regularly tested and functioning properly.
Also read: Naomi Neo Slammed For Playing TikTok Ghost Prank On Son, Says She Appreciates The Advice
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Featured image adapted from @shinrai.sg on Instagram and @naomineo_ on Instagram.