Singapore Courts Slam a Bra‑Theft Case, Even When It’s on a Foreign Ship
Breaking News from the high seas: Ng Kok Wai, a 29‑year‑old Singaporean, tried to dodge prosecution by arguing “I was far away, so who’s got the jurisdiction here?” Unfortunately for him, the court was not amused.
What Went Down
- He allegedly climbed over the balcony of a cabin and slipped inside.
- Inside? He allegedly grabbed a bra (yes, really) and a suitcase.
- The crime took place on a Bahamas‑flagged cruise ship, cruising in international waters.
Legal Battle
Ng’s lawyer, Mr. Ryan David Lim, fired up the court with one simple line: “Singapore can’t try me because I’m on a foreign vessel.”
Enter District Judge Kow Keng Siong. He put the neat punchline to its rightful place:
- Singapore’s criminal law does have a seat at this table, even if the crime happened outside the island’s borders.
- The court said that the Merchant Shipping Act would guide the proceedings, not the Penal Code (the standard, land-based criminal law).
Which Section of the Act? A Quick Legal Triage
The prosecution wanted to fire up Section 180, arguing it extends jurisdiction to any crime outside Singapore.
The judge countered: Section 178 is the real deal here. It says if you commit a crime aboard a foreign ship that’s outside Singapore’s airspace, Singapore can still step in. If you want the court to listen to it, you’d need Section 180. Short story?
What’s at Stake?
- Housebreaking charge: Up to 10 years in jail + a fine.
- Theft charge (bra and luggage): Up to 7 years in jail + a fine.
The Verdict in a Nutshell
Judge Kow formally said that Ng can indeed be tried in Singapore, provided the facts show the crime was actually committed. This is the court’s way of saying: “We can’t just shrug off this case as a foreign affair.”
Next Steps
The case has been adjourned. Both sides – the prosecution and Ng’s defense – will huddle over the next move.
TL;DR: A Singaporean on a foreign cruise ship tried to skip jail. The court said nope – Singapore’s law still applies. He faces serious jail time if found guilty.
— From The Straits Times, Singapore— after permissions.
