Taiwan Police Arrest Suspect in Unattended Store Theft

Police in Chiayi County, Taiwan, have arrested a suspect in connection with the theft of over 10,000 NT dollars from two "Shopee Store-to-Store" unmanned convenience stores. The suspect, identified as a 41-year-old renovation worker, allegedly targeted self-checkout machines in Shuishang and Taibao townships.

Authorities reported that the suspect would disable the machines using tools during the late night or early morning hours when fewer people were around. He would then steal the cash from the coin and banknote compartments. The total amount stolen exceeded 10,000 NT dollars.

Investigators utilized surveillance footage and data analysis to identify the suspect and his vehicle. The suspect reportedly took precautions to avoid detection, parking his car in a distant lot, wearing a raincoat, fisherman's hat, mask, and gloves, and using back alleys to create diversions. He fled to other counties after the thefts.

Police tracked the suspect to a hotel in Hualien County, where he was apprehended early on the morning of the 24th. During the arrest, authorities seized tools used in the crime, including an electric grinder and chisel, as well as the suspect's clothing and remaining stolen money. He has been transferred to the Chiayi District Prosecutor's Office and faces charges of aggravated theft, with prosecutors successfully applying for his detention.

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The suspect would use tools to break into the self-checkout machines in the stores, stealing cash from the coin and banknote boxes.