In the past, Singapore witnessed a unique and concerning trend of burglaries, where thieves exploited rubbish chutes in residential buildings to gain access to flats. This method of burglary, which saw a significant rise and eventual fall, highlights a unique aspect of urban crime in Singapore.
The Rise of Chute Burglaries
Early Incidents
Initially, the burglars accessed homes through intact doors and windows, leaving residents puzzled. For instance, Fong Shi Ge returned home to find his belongings stolen and his savings withdrawn, yet his home’s entry points were undisturbed. The only clue was the tampered rubbish chute.
Evolution of the Method
By the late 1980s and early 1990s, the method of chute break-ins evolved. Burglars began to target new housing estates like Yishun, Bukit Batok, and Simei, where the number of vacant flats was higher. Over 20 flats were ransacked using this method from February to May 1990.
Mitigation and Decline
Implementation of Safety Measures
To combat this trend, authorities and the Housing & Development Board (HDB) recommended installing locks on chute covers. This measure, along with the introduction of communal trash chutes, significantly reduced the incentives for burglars to use this method. As a result, reports of such cases became almost non-existent from the mid-90s onwards.
Conclusion
The case of rubbish chute burglaries in Singapore demonstrates how urban infrastructure can inadvertently create opportunities for crime, and how prompt responses from authorities and changes in design can effectively mitigate these risks. This episode in Singapore’s urban history serves as a reminder of the constant need for vigilance and adaptation in urban planning and security measures.
Also learn about Crackdown on Smuggling at Singapore’s Borders.
