From misplaced mobile devices to wandering wallets, the SPF’s Found and Unclaimed Property Office is using tech to turn “lost causes” into “found treasures.” Discover how our officers help reunite owners with their wayward belongings.
By: Domnic Dass
We’ve all experienced it – that heart-sinking feeling when you realise your wallet, phone or treasured possession has gone missing. But fear not! The Singapore Police Force’s (SPF) Found and Unclaimed Property Office (FUPO) is on a mission to turn those frowns upside down, armed with an arsenal of high-tech gadgets.
Since 2009, the FUPO has been the hub for managing found property handed over to the Police by eagle-eyed members of the public. Nestled within the Police Logistics Base at Hemmant Road, this unassuming office works tirelessly to reunite lost items with their rightful owners.
A Growing Challenge
In recent years, the FUPO has seen a surge in found property reports. In 2024, a whopping 50,000 reports were filed. But here’s the good news: more than half of these items find their way back home, thanks to the FUPO’s dedication and some seriously clever tech.
In accordance with legal requirements, unclaimed properties are disposed of after 30 days. Items such as watches, and jewellery are auctioned off while unclaimed cash is forfeited to the State. Other items like clothing and worn-out shoes are disposed of at an incineration plant.
From Dropbox to the FUPO
Lost items begin their journey to the FUPO through Found Property Dropboxes located at 56 Neighbourhood Police Posts and 32 Neighbourhood Police Centres across Singapore.
These highly secure containers feature robust locking mechanisms accessible only by authorised FUPO personnel, ensuring a strict chain of custody. Each dropbox, equipped with load-monitoring sensors (up to 1.5kg), facilitates efficient collection of items.
The FUPO conducts daily collections, visiting each location on alternate days. Collected items are then transported in GPS-tracked vehicles fitted with CCTV cameras.
The Tech Revolution in Processing Found Property
Since 2021, the FUPO has undergone successive enhancements in its operations. The office upgraded its operational area, doubling its capacity to process found properties. By leveraging technological tools, the office has significantly reduced manual tasks, raised productivity and improved the management of found properties. Here’s a glimpse of their cutting-edge toolkit.
1. Conveyor Robots
These tireless workers transport property between processing areas, reducing manual handling and the risk of workplace injuries, and also allowing personnel to focus on reuniting items with their owners.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Powered Optical Cameras
Forget manual data entry – these smart cameras can identify different types of found property faster than you can say, “Where's my wallet?”
The cameras automatically read and input details such as serial numbers or names on the items into an inventory system, reducing processing time and human error.
3. Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
Imagine a host of computer programmes handling repetitive tasks like keying in serial numbers and putting up reports. That’s RPA in action, ensuring data consistency and freeing up FUPO personnel for more complex tasks.
4. Automated Backend Screening
Upon registration, FUPO’s advanced system automatically cross-references the property’s unique identifiers against Police databases. This process swiftly matches found items with existing lost reports, expediting owner identification. Once a match is confirmed, FUPO notifies the owner to collect their item.
All processed items are stored in FUPO’s secure storage area for up to 30 days. This organised system ensures that items are readily accessible when owners arrive for collection, completing the final step in FUPO’s lost-and-found process.
The Future is Found
FUPO’s technological capabilities promises a brighter future for lost property recovery in Singapore. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Mohd Hussaini, the Officer-in-Charge of the FUPO. explains: “Leveraging technology to streamline our backend processes is not just about improving accountability and governance – we’re making sure lost items are returned to their rightful owners more efficiently than ever before.”
If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of having lost something, remember this golden rule: when lodging a report, provide as much information as possible. Serial numbers, date, time, location and any unique identifiers can significantly speed up the reunion process. These details act as crucial breadcrumbs for FUPO to follow.
By blending cutting-edge technology with traditional detective work, the FUPO is setting new standards in lost property recovery. Thanks to its efforts, your lost item might find its way back to you sooner than you think!
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