Singapore, long hailed as a global pinnacle of security, is now facing a reputation challenge: a 28-year-old tourist from Taiwan reported that USD 2,300 went missing from his hotel room on Sentosa Island. He publicized his ordeal on social media, warning other travelers to stay vigilant—even in places deemed “perfectly safe.”
According to the tourist, he left the money in a plastic bag on his hotel room table at Village Hotel Sentosa before visiting Universal Studios. When he returned the next morning, the bag was gone. He described feeling “powerless,” calling it his first ever experience of theft while abroad.
Hotel management responded swiftly, stating there was no evidence implicating staff. They suggested the money might have been accidentally thrown away and encouraged the tourist to search trash bins. The tourist even posted photos of himself sifting through garbage under police supervision.
During the investigation, a cleaner assigned to his room was questioned. Police recovered a white plastic bag resembling the one he reported missing, but no definitive conclusions have been drawn.
This incident cracks the polished narrative of Singapore as an ultra-secure tourist hub. Even in a country famed for strict laws and order, surprises still lurk.
What It Means for Travelers
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Never leave cash or valuables in plain sight—even in upscale hotels.
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Use room safes or secure storage.
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Photographically document belongings before leaving.
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If you discover a theft — alert local police, hotel security, and preserve all evidence (photos, receipts, logs).
