Helper Steals S$677 from Singapore Employer, Transfers to Boyfriend, He Stands Her Up at Airport for Days

Financial Strain and Trust Betrayal

Lestari, a 41-year-old helper, stole S$677 from her elderly employers, a couple in their 70s, who were still asleep. She unlocked the male employer's briefcase, took the cash, and left with the identity documents. She then transferred S$654 to her boyfriend in Indonesia, using a cash exchange at City Plaza. She spent the remaining cash on her own. The female employer reported the theft immediately, and Lestari was eventually arrested at HarbourFront Centre.

Betrayal of Trust

Lestari explained in court that she stole due to severe financial pressure from her boyfriend. She pleaded guilty to one charge of theft and was sentenced to four weeks in jail, backdated to the date of her arrest. The judge noted that Lestari had betrayed the trust of her employers and had not made any restitution to date.

Implications for Foreign Domestic Workers

This case underscores the importance of financial support and trust between employers and helpers. The theft highlights the potential risks faced by foreign domestic workers in Singapore and the importance of addressing financial strain and providing support to prevent such incidents.