Same suspect strikes twice in two nights, targeting cash, cigarettes, and groceries

A small vegetable shop in Tanjungpinang has become the repeated target of a bold thief who struck on consecutive nights. Captured on CCTV, the suspect not only looted valuable items but also attempted to erase evidence by dismantling security equipment.

Two Nights, One Suspect

On June 6 and 7, 2025, a vegetable shop owned by Sudirman on Jalan Sultan Mahmud, Tanjungpinang, was burglarized twice in succession. The CCTV footage clearly captured a man in a cap rummaging through the cash register. Sudirman believes it was the same individual involved in both break-ins, describing him as having thick eyebrows and a mustache.

“It happened just after Eid al-Adha. He came again the next night,” Sudirman explained.

First Hit: Major Losses

During the first incident in the early hours of June 6, the thief made off with around IDR 11–12 million (approx. SGD 880–960) worth of goods. This included about IDR 4 million in cash and roughly IDR 7 million in cigarette stock from the shop’s display case. The shop owner promptly reported the theft to local police.

Second Strike: Damage ControlOn the second night, the same thief returned, this time with a different focus—targeting the shop’s CCTV system. Although the suspect attempted to disable the cameras, some footage still survived. While fewer valuables were taken—mainly groceries like cooking oil, spices, and canned sardines—the incident deepened the financial strain and emotional toll on the owner.

Vulnerable Entry Point

Sudirman suspects the thief entered through an unsecured second-floor window by climbing onto the building using a nearby pickup truck or structure. “There was no iron grille on that window. He could have used a vehicle to climb up,” he said.

The shop’s location in a relatively quiet neighborhood may have contributed to the thief’s confidence, as no witnesses have come forward.

Police Involvement Underway

Police in Tanjungpinang are currently investigating the incidents based on the CCTV footage and Sudirman’s report. However, no arrests have been made as of June 10, 2025. Sudirman hopes that police will act swiftly before the suspect targets more local businesses.

The repeat burglary in Tanjungpinang underscores the vulnerability of small businesses lacking robust security systems. As similar crimes surface across Indonesia, the incident serves as a wake-up call for both business owners and law enforcement to strengthen prevention measures. The case is particularly concerning for Singaporeans and Indonesians who frequently operate or shop in cross-border areas, highlighting the need for better neighborhood surveillance and prompt police action.

Sources: Batam Pos (2025) , Ulasan (2025)

Keywords: Tanjungpinang Burglary, Vegetable Shop Theft, Sudirman Store Break-In, CCTV Theft, Repeat Offender