Shocking Airport Theft and Its Consequences

SINGAPORE – In a chilling reminder that crime doesn’t pay, an Australian woman, Raj Varsha, found herself in hot water after stealing a bottle of Chanel perfume from Changi Airport. The 35-year-old was slapped with a hefty $750 fine on April 11 after pleading guilty to theft in a case that unfolded dramatically over two years.

The Bold Move at Changi Airport

On March 22, 2023, Raj and her family arrived at Changi Airport after an early flight from Australia. Just an hour after landing, she brazenly strolled into The Shilla Duty Free store around 4:10 AM. In a split second, she snatched a bottle of Chanel worth nearly $250 and cleverly tucked it into her bag before making a hasty exit.

A Swift Getaway and a Long Return

Unbeknownst to Raj, her actions had not gone unnoticed. A vigilant security officer alerted store employees, prompting a review of CCTV footage that captured her crime in action. Realizing the jig was up, Raj quickly left the store and departed for Thailand at 9:10 AM, leaving chaos in her wake.

Caught After Two Years

Fast forward to March 31, 2025—two years later—when Raj returned to Singapore from India. This time, she wasn’t met with family hugs but was detained by authorities who had been tipped off about her return. Faced with the evidence, Raj admitted to the theft, claiming the stolen perfume was a gift for her mother.

An Emotional Plea in Court

As she stood before District Judge A. Sangeetha, Raj couldn't hold back her tears. 'I take full responsibility for what I have done and I’m very sorry,' she implored, adding she had never faced legal troubles before. She explained her lapse in judgment, stating she 'wasn’t thinking straight and was not in the right frame of mind.' In an effort to make amends, she has since returned the stolen item.

The Sentencing and Legal Ramifications

Raj's case serves as a stark reminder that theft can lead to serious repercussions, with offenders facing up to three years in prison and substantial fines. Her story is a cautionary tale about the thrill of impulsive decisions and the cost that often follows.