Preedee TeoTwo separate cases of theft were reported on VietJet Air and HK Express flights from Vietnam to Hong Kong, with one incident involving a significant amount of money and another the theft of a luxury watch and cash.
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A VietJet passenger reports credit card theft
Image credit: VietJet Air | Facebook
While on a flight from Vietnam to Hong Kong, a mainland Chinese traveller discovered that his credit card was allegedly stolen. His credit card was used to make purchases totalling over HK$36,000 (US$4,600; S$6000). The passenger fell asleep on the plane with his credit card in his backpack. When he woke up, he found the card missing and discovered unauthorised charges of over HK$36,000 and reported the theft to the Hong Kong police.
Second theft involving valuable items on another flight
Image credit: HK Express 香港快運及旅行資訊關注組 | Facebook
On the same day, a separate in-flight theft occurred involving a stolen Rolex watch and other valuables on a flight from Da Nang to Hong Kong. A 57-year-old man was arrested after allegedly stealing a Rolex watch valued at HK$330,000 (US$42,300; S$55,186), along with various currencies, from another passenger. The victim had put his belongings, including a valuable Rolex watch and cash, in a handbag in the overhead compartment. He discovered that these items were missing after the plane landed and passengers started to board the bus.
Airport staff alerted the police following the victim’s report, which prompted several witnesses to identify the suspect, and the stolen items were recovered hidden under a mat on the luggage rack. The suspect was subsequently arrested by police officers.
How to avoid being a victim of theft while travelling
Keep valuable items secured: Place valuables like passports, cash, and phones in a secure waist pouch or pocket. You may want to consider buying a Master Lock Portable Lock Box that comes with a numbered padlock to secure your valuable items safely.
Don’t lose sight of your valuables: Avoid leaving your personal belongings in the overhead compartment. Instead, place them inside your carry-on and keep it close to your body. As an additional safety measure, you may want to consider getting an Apple Air Tag to track your items, increasing your chances of retrieving your stolen belongings.
If you find your valuables missing: Keep all your travel documents, including tickets, luggage tags, and receipts, especially for things you buy in an emergency. You’ll need these if you want to file an insurance claim. If your belongings get stolen, report it to the local police. A police report is necessary for your insurance claim.
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HK Express confirmed the incident to the press, stating that their staff had immediately called for police assistance upon landing in Hong Kong, following standard procedures. Although VietJet Air has an airport district investigation team to take over the case, no arrests have been made so far.
Both incidents are under active investigation, with authorities urging passengers to remain vigilant and keep personal belongings secure while travelling.
Featured image credit: VietJet Air | Facebook
Facebook featured image credit: HK Express 香港快運及旅行資訊關注組 | Facebook
