A cellphone nicked every two hours

Straits Times - The Sunday Times: Feb 12, 2006

I AM shocked to read the news about the alarming increase in phone thefts. I find it impossible to believe that a phone is being snatched or forced from its owner every two hours. However it is still true. I feel that if this issue is not solved as soon as possible, this might be a deterrent for tourists to visit Singapore. It is really upsetting to see such audacity these criminals have just to get fast cash. I feel that nowadays such youngers lack the moral values for righteousness nad having the simple courage to stand up for what is right. In order to get fast cash, these people resort to stealing handphones in order to sell them to second-hand phone dealers. I am gald to see that the government has stepped up by making it mandatory for sellers to leave their phone particulars, date of purchase, name and identification number for reference. In this manner, it then would be easier for police to check during investigations. In order to improve more of such social problems, more campaigns should be held in schools and public areas to emphasize the importance of honesty and integrity. Similar to what i am saying, campaigns such as discouraging the piracy of original CDs, VCDs, DVDs and music have been held. This makes the public aware that what they have been doing is wrong. This also is like a form of warning before the police catch any of these illegal selling, purchasing or usuage. At least these teens will not have a good excuse to give for owning such goods.