i want endorphin

Tuesday, June 13, 2006
1:43 AM

Thief nabbed while counting loot
Michelle Tan and Tanya Lai

Truly a classic case of counting chickens before they hatch. Tan Chong How, 30, was caught near the lift lobby of Block 502, Toa Payoh Lorong 8. He was counting his loot while waiting for the lift, when he was surprised by a constable.

A fifth-storey flat was broken into on the morning of February 20, by Tan and two accomplices. A neighbour, who gave her name as Madam Wee, told us, “I was about to go to the market when I spotted that something was amiss. Usually, the Ang family who lives in that flat would all be out at that time, but I heard some strange noises in the living room. Peeking in, I saw three strange men.”

The 42-year old mother of three acted swiftly and informed the police. Before the police arrived, however, Constable Eric Low, who lives in the block, saw Tan as he was about to leave for work. Seeing the door of the flat ajar, as well as Tan’s gleeful look as he counted fifty-dollar notes, Constable Low realized what was happening and gave chase.

Tan ran up the stairs but Constable Low caught up on the eighth floor. Seeing that he was cornered, Tan produced a knife and a scuffle followed.

Despite the danger of the situation, Constable Low managed to keep Tan restrained until back-up arrived. Police arrested the thief and recovered $405 and several documents, including a forged passport.

Unfortunately, Constable Low had not realized that Tan’s two accomplices were still in the flat and thus did not go after them. This gave them a chance to escape with cash and valuables worth over $4000.

Tan was jailed 4 years and given 12 strokes of the cane. He had two previous convictions for housebreaking. District Judge Chua Eng Yong said Tan deserved a severe sentence as this was his third offence.

One of Tan’s accomplices was described to be a tall Chinese man in his thirties, with bleached hair. The other is a middle-aged Chinese, with darker skin and medium build. They were last seen wearing khaki shorts and T-shirts. Eye-witnesses, please contact the police at 1800 211 6262.

the above is a little exercise on news reports that michelle and i did in english one day. we had to write a report based on some points stated in the assignment, and we made up our own witnesses as well as some points. not too bad for a few minutes' work huh. lol.