The number of thefts on board flights into Hong Kong has surged following the removal of pandemic-related travel restrictions. - South China Morning Post
HONG KONG: Hong Kong police have arrested a 42-year-old man from mainland China on suspicion of stealing foreign currency worth about HK$11,000 (US$1,400) and a bank card from another passenger during a flight into the city from Vietnam.
The force on Friday revealed details of the latest case of suspected in-flight theft, noting the victim had placed his backpack in the overhead luggage bin but later found the money and card were missing.
Officers responded to a report on Thursday and arrested the mainland traveller on suspicion of theft.
The man allegedly stole about 8,600 yuan (US$1,180) and 860 Malaysian ringgit (US$194) and a debit card. He is still being detained for questioning.
A police spokesman declined to provide further details.
The number of thefts on board flights into Hong Kong has surged following the removal of pandemic-related travel restrictions.
The police disclosed the incident on Friday, shedding light on the victim’s discovery of the missing funds and card after placing his backpack in the overhead compartment during the flight. Police apprehended the mainland Chinese traveller on Thursday under suspicion of theft.
Reportedly, the individual absconded with around 8,600 yuan (US$1,180), 860 Malaysian ringgit (US$194), and a debit card. Currently in custody for interrogation, no further information has been released by police spokespeople.
Hong Kong recorded 169 cases of in-flight thefts involving HK$4.32 million (US$555,050) worth of valuables in the first 10 months of 2024, exceeding the annual number of reports in each of the tourism boom years of 2018 and 2019.
