A 61-year-old Singaporean man has pleaded guilty to stealing 320 pieces of women’s underwear over a period of five years. The offences came to light after he was caught in the act on May 21, 2025, attempting to steal ten undergarments from a flat in Bukit Batok Central.
According to reports from Shin Min Daily News, a resident heard “very light” footsteps outside his home at around 4:20am and noticed the accused, Dennis Kwek, moving along the corridor wearing a black t-shirt, black cap, and blue mask. Realising he had been seen, Kwek tried to flee, but the resident chased him and grew suspicious when Kwek’s pockets appeared unusually full. A search revealed six pairs of women’s underwear and four bras, prompting the resident to call the police.
After his arrest, authorities searched Kwek’s home and discovered seven bags containing an additional 310 pieces of underwear. Kwek admitted to stealing them over the last five years. During court proceedings, prosecutors revealed that Kwek had been diagnosed with alcohol use disorder by the Institute of Mental Health (IMH), reporting that he experienced urges to steal underwear after drinking.
Kwek, who was employed as an airline security guard at the time of his arrest, was ordered to undergo mandatory treatment and evaluation. In court, he apologised and stated that he had abstained from alcohol for 278 days, joined a support group, and set goals to contribute positively to society after being shunned by friends, colleagues, and family following his arrest. He pleaded guilty to one count under the Miscellaneous Offences (Public Order and Nuisance) Act and is scheduled for sentencing on April 1.
Conviction for possessing items suspected to be stolen carries a maximum penalty of one year’s imprisonment, a fine of up to S$3,000, or both.
