Overview

• Authorities in Singapore detained Benedetta Pilato and Chiara Tarantino after cameras allegedly recorded Tarantino placing unpaid shop items in Pilato’s bag.
• The pair were searched, interrogated for hours and had their passports seized, then were housed in a hotel and issued a warning before being allowed to fly home on August 20.
• Italy’s embassy and the Foreign Ministry, with direct involvement reported from minister Antonio Tajani, secured a special permit enabling their departure.
• Travel companions Anita Bottazzo and Sofia Morini were also held and searched, with Bottazzo subjected to a full search, before all four were cleared to leave.
• Pilato posted on Instagram that she was indirectly involved, denied any intent and said she cooperated fully, while Tarantino has not commented and the Italian federation says it will evaluate the episode.