A 42-year-old Myanmar national was sentenced to 20 months in jail after pleading guilty to criminal breach of trust and theft in Singapore. The crimes involved the illicit withdrawal of $86,000 and the pawning of $20,368 worth of gold jewellery belonging to her 75-year-old employer.
Details of the Case
In May 2024, the employer entrusted the helper with an ATM card and PIN for monthly grocery and basic needs purchases, allowing up to $2,000 per month. The helper also assisted with withdrawals for trips to Johor Bahru. Later that year, a $10,000 salary advance was granted, while the helper’s monthly earnings were between $700 and $800.
Between December 2024 and July 2025, the defendant made 43 unauthorized withdrawals of $2,000 each, totaling $86,000. She attempted to conceal these actions by making withdrawals while her employer slept and deleting bank notifications from the employer’s mobile phone. Despite a promise to cease the withdrawals after being discovered once, she continued the scheme.
Additionally, between January and June 2025, the helper stole seven pieces of gold jewellery while the employer was asleep and pawned them for cash. The employer’s friend discovered the unauthorized withdrawals and, finding the helper missing with her luggage and passport on July 11, contacted the police.
Police found $2,000 in cash on the defendant, which she identified as belonging to her employer. During the investigation, she admitted to a gambling addiction as the motivation for her actions. She stated in court that not all of the stolen money was used for gambling, with some funds sent to her family.
Possible Next Steps
Following sentencing, the defendant may be subject to deportation proceedings upon completion of her jail term. It is possible that authorities will review procedures for entrusting financial access to domestic workers. The employer may also need to consider adjustments to security measures regarding valuables.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the total value of items stolen?
The total value of items stolen was $106,368, comprised of $86,000 in illicit withdrawals and $20,368 worth of pawned gold jewellery.
How long did the theft occur?
The theft occurred over a period of approximately eight months, from December 2024 to July 2025.
What was the defendant’s explanation for her actions?
The defendant stated that she committed the crimes to fund a gambling addiction, and expressed remorse for her actions.
How can employers better protect themselves and their employees when establishing financial arrangements?
