Chinese passenger arrested for allegedly stealing $560 on flight from Malaysia to Hong Kong

By Phong Ngo October 27, 2024 | 07:27 pm PT

Passengers seat in an airplane cabin. Illustration photo by Pixabay

A 49-year-old man from mainland China was arrested for allegedly stealing over HK$4,300 (US$560) from two passengers during a flight from Malaysia to Hong Kong, amid a surge in in-flight thefts in the city.

Hong Kong police received a report on Oct. 24 regarding the theft of HK$3,500 (US$450) and S$150 (US$110) from two passengers’ luggage, according to SCMP.

After an investigation, officers detained the suspect, who held a mainland passport. The man remains in custody, and the airport police station is managing the case. In an Oct. 25 statement, the police emphasized their collaboration with the Airport Authority, Airport Aviation Company, and airlines to combat theft on flights.

"Police urge passengers to remain vigilant at all times in the cabin, lock and keep their carry-on luggage properly, and be especially careful when leaving their seats," the force said. "They must carry their cash and valuables with them or leave them with relatives and friends traveling with them for safekeeping."

Hong Kong has reported 132 thefts on inbound flights in the first 8 months of this year, a 164% rise over the same period last year.

The most significant incident occurred in August when a Swiss tourist reported a HK$4.16 million watch stolen on a flight to the city.