Two Germans were arrested at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on Nov. 20 for their alleged involvement in the latest case of vandalism at SMRT’s Bishan train depot that took place earlier this month.
The 21-year-old men — Andreas Von Knorre and Elton Hinz —were located and apprehended with the assistance of both the Royal Malaysia Police and the Royal Thai Police following intensive probes and investigations by various intelligence agencies in Singapore, and a warrant of arrest issued by the State Courts.
Both men were extradited back to Singapore and have already been charged with the offences of trespassing and vandalism. According to various media reports, the suspects entered the Bishan SMRT depot on Nov. 8 without authorisation and tagged the left exterior cabin of a train with spray paint.
Knorre and Hinz were believed to to be departing on a flight to Australia when they were arrested. Three spray-can nozzles were found on them, and have been seized as evidence.
Vandalism carries a punishment of imprisonment of up to three years or a fine up to $2,000 and caning of up to eight strokes. Trespassing carries a fine of $1,000 and/or imprisonment of up to two years.
More steps are currently being taken by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to deter the cases of security breaches plaguing SMRT, including increasing the number of security personnel and patrolling frequency at the depot, along with upgrading site’s perimeter fencing.
“LTA will continue to work with the PTOs and relevant agencies to take the necessary measures needed to strengthen the security of our PT network.” LTA announced in a press release.
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