Singapore: Two Indian nationals visiting Singapore were sentenced to jail after robbing women and physically assaulting them. The men reportedly said financial difficulties were the reason behind their actions.

What Happened?

Arokkiyasami Daison and Rajendran Mayilarasan arrived in Singapore from India on April 24, according to the Straits Times. They were in the country as tourists and spent time in the Little India district.

While there, the men were approached by someone who asked if they wanted to hire women and provided contact details for two individuals. Daison allegedly suggested taking advantage of them financially and shared the plan with Mayilarasan.

On the same day, the pair met one of the women in a hotel room on Jalan Besar. Inside, they restrained her hands and feet and reportedly slapped her. They then took her jewellery, bank card, $2,000 in cash, and passport.

Later that evening, the men targeted the second woman. Reports said they overpowered her and stole two mobile phones, her passport, and $800 in cash.

How Was the Incident Discovered?

The case came to light when the second woman confided in a man about the robbery, which eventually led to a police report.

Why Did They Commit These Acts?

Daison, through an interpreter, told authorities, “My father passed away last year. I have three sisters, one of whom is married, and we are struggling financially. That is why I did this.”

Mayilarasan added, “My wife and child are in India, and we are facing financial difficulties.”

Sentencing

Arokkiyasami Daison, 23, and Rajendran Mayilarasan, 27, requested leniency during mitigation. Each was sentenced to five years and one month in prison. After pleading guilty, they were also sentenced to 12 strokes of the cane each.