Italian Swimmers Detained, Warned for Alleged Shoplifting in Singapore

Two Italian swimmers, Benedetta Pilato and Chiara Tarantino, were detained at Singapore's Changi Airport on suspicion of shoplifting perfumes before boarding their flight back to Italy. Surveillance footage showed Tarantino placing the stolen items in Pilato’s suitcase, leading to hours of questioning and a search, but both were released after the Italian embassy intervened diplomatically. The incident occurred after they competed in the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore and vacationed in Bali. Pilato, a decorated breaststroke medalist, publicly expressed regret over the incident, emphasizing her innocence and cooperation with authorities, while the Italian Swimming Federation condemned the act and stated it would carefully evaluate any disciplinary action. Both swimmers were allowed to leave Singapore with warnings and repatriation documents, with their passports temporarily confiscated. The case highlights issues of personal responsibility and the impact of off-competition conduct on athletes' reputations.