The number of youths arrested in Singapore increased by nearly 19% in 2025, driven primarily by a rise in cheating offenses, according to data released by the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) on September 29. A total of 3,177 young people aged between 10 and under 21 were apprehended last year, compared to 2,627 in 2024.

This increase resulted in the youth offending rate rising from 4.8 to 5.6 per 1,000 young people between 2024 and 2025. Despite the uptick, the rate remains below the recent peak of 5.8 per 1,000 youths recorded in 2021. The figures were published in the biennial Supporting Youth Rehabilitation Trends Report, which provides an analysis of youth offending and rehabilitation patterns over a five-year period, from 2021 to 2025.

Cheating and related offenses emerged as the most common type of crime among youth last year, with 1,114 individuals arrested for such activities—a 37% rise from 814 cases in 2024. These offenses notably include instances where young people acted as scam mules, facilitating fraudulent schemes.

The report highlights the evolving profile of youth offending in Singapore, with increased attention on tackling deceptive activities involving young perpetrators. Authorities have placed emphasis on rehabilitation efforts aimed at addressing underlying issues and preventing recidivism among this demographic.

Other types of offenses and their respective trends were not detailed in the summary of the report. However, the MSF’s publication serves as a crucial tool for policymakers and social service agencies to monitor and respond to shifts in youth criminal behavior as part of broader efforts to promote youth well-being and community safety.