48-year-old man linked to multiple corridor thefts caught after CCTV footage spread online
A 48-year-old man has been arrested in Yishun after being linked to a string of thefts from HDB corridors, with CCTV footage of him crawling on all fours going viral on TikTok and alarming residents.
String of Corridor Thefts Reported
Between August 15 and 25, residents of Yishun Ring Road reported several thefts from their HDB corridors. Stolen items included jackets, shirts, and trousers left on laundry racks. Police also received complaints of a suspicious man loitering in the common areas during the same period.
Viral CCTV Video Fuels Alarm
The case drew widespread attention after a TikTok video showed a man crawling along a Yishun HDB corridor around 5am on August 25. The footage, captured by a resident’s CCTV, showed him inspecting a shoe cabinet and briefly picking up a pair of shoes before returning them. Many online commenters speculated that he was crawling to avoid surveillance cameras. The clip circulated with the warning caption: “YISHUN WATCH OUT FOR THIS MAN.”
Police Identify and Arrest Suspect
Following extensive ground enquiries and review of CCTV evidence, officers from the Woodlands Police Division identified the suspect and arrested him on August 28. At the time of his arrest, police recovered a jacket allegedly stolen from the first reported victim.
Court Charges and Penalties
On August 30, the man was formally charged in court with theft under Section 379 of the Penal Code 1871. If convicted, he faces up to three years in prison, a fine, or both.
Community Concerns Over Safety
The unusual nature of the suspect’s actions — crawling along corridors in the early morning hours — has sparked concern among Yishun residents. While authorities have not officially confirmed that the man in the viral video is the same individual arrested, the timeline and locations strongly suggest a connection.
The Yishun corridor theft case highlights how CCTV footage and community vigilance can play a vital role in supporting police investigations. With the suspect now facing charges, the case underscores Singapore’s firm stance on neighborhood safety and the importance of residents reporting suspicious activity.
Sources: Must Share News (2025) , Mothership (2025)
Keywords: Yishun Theft Arrest, Man Crawling Corridor, Viral TikTok Singapore, HDB Theft Case, Yishun Police Arrest, Singapore Court
