Two Indian Nationals Charged in S$235,000 Diamond Theft, June 21

Singapore police arrested two Indian nationals on June 19 for stealing a diamond worth S$235,000 from a jewellery store in Chinatown. The men replaced the genuine gem with a fake while pretending to examine it, then left without buying anything. Police recovered the diamond and arrested both suspects at Changi Airport Terminal 3 within three hours of the report.

How the Theft Unfolded

Serasiya Milan Ramnikbhai, 30, and Mangroliya Manojkumar Kurjibhai, 41, entered Dianoche Diamonds Jewelry on Kreta Ayer Road on June 19 at 3.40pm. They showed interest in purchasing a diamond valued at US$154,000 (S$235,000). While examining the gem, they replaced it with a fake one using a sleight-of-hand technique. The pair left the shop without making any purchase, which aroused the shop assistant’s suspicion.

The assistant conducted a routine check after the customers departed and discovered the switch immediately. Police received the report at 3.40pm and began their investigation.

Swift Arrest and Recovery

Officers from the Central Police Division and Police Operations Command Centre identified the suspects through CCTV footage from the jewellery store and police cameras, combined with ground enquiries and follow-up investigations. The two men were arrested at Changi Airport Terminal 3 on the same day, just three hours after the initial report. Police recovered the stolen diamond and seized it as case evidence.

The rapid response prevented the suspects from leaving Singapore. Both men were charged on June 20 with theft in a dwelling with common intention.

Legal Consequences and Police Warning

If convicted, each man faces up to seven years in jail and a fine. Their cases will be heard in court again on June 26. Singapore Police Force stated they have zero tolerance for such crimes and will pursue offenders according to the law.

Police advised all luxury retailers to be vigilant against similar sleight-of-hand theft techniques. The modus operandi has become increasingly common across Asian luxury retail markets, according to law enforcement reports.

Final Thoughts

Singapore’s integrated law enforcement response recovered the stolen diamond within hours and arrested both suspects. Luxury retailers across the region now face heightened risk from organised sleight-of-hand theft gangs targeting high-value gems.

FAQs

Disclaimer:

The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes.  Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.