Two Italian swimming stars arrested at Singapore airport for 'petty theft'

Two Italian swimming stars Chiara Tarantino (22 years old) and Benedetta Pilato (20 years old) were stopped and briefly detained by police at Singapore airport, after being caught on surveillance camera taking perfume from a store without paying.

Benedetta Pilato and teammate Tarantino were detained at Singapore airport for "petty theft" - Photo: CORRIERE

According to the Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport , Benedetta Pilato and Chiara Tarantino competed in the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, then went on holiday to Bali, Indonesia, and then returned to Singapore to board a flight back to Italy. However, before boarding the plane, Pilato and Tarantino were detained on suspicion of petty theft.

Tarantino was caught on camera putting the stolen items into Pilato's suitcase. The Italian Embassy eventually stepped in and helped arrange for the swimmers to return to Italy. Meanwhile, the Italian Swimming Federation issued a statement saying it would assess the situation.

A veteran international breaststroke swimmer, Pilato won the 100m breaststroke gold medal at the 2022 World Short Course Championships, while Tarantino has also won multiple medals at European competitions. Both are currently members of the Italian Olympic swimming team.

Pilato spoke out after the incident, writing on Instagram: "On days that were supposed to be mostly about rest and mental relaxation, I had some particularly difficult moments.

I would like to clarify that I have cooperated with the local authorities from the beginning, with the full support of the Italian Embassy. Fortunately, the incident was concluded within a few hours, without any consequences, thanks to my maximum transparency with the Singapore airport authorities.

It was never my intention to engage in any inappropriate behaviour and those who know me know how much I care about sporting values, fairness and personal integrity. From this experience I have learned great lessons about prudence, personal responsibility and the value of those around me."

QUOC THANG

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/2-ngoi-sao-boi-loi-y-bi-bat-giu-o-san-bay-singapore-vi-trom-cap-vat-20250831055517848.htm