String of 'Distraction Thefts' Prompts Saanich PD Warning
- Two Chinese nationals, Liu Xitang and Wang Wei, were arrested and charged on June 4 for stealing cash and debit cards from passengers on a Kuala Lumpur-Singapore flight.
- This arrest reflects a wider rise in in-flight thefts linked to organised syndicates exploiting increased air travel since the Covid-19 pandemic.
- The Airport Police Division uses data analytics and patrol robots since 2023 to identify suspects and prevent quick escapes via short transit flights at Changi Airport.
- Iata reported a 75% increase in in-flight thefts over 12-18 months, with 169 cases involving HK$4.32 million in valuables in Hong Kong and 146 reports in Malaysia in 2024.
- Authorities advise passengers to remain vigilant, keep valuables close, and report thefts promptly as criminals often flee before investigations can intercept them.
9 Articles
9 Articles
Organised crime groups behind in-flight theft cases, says Singapore Police Force
A spike in cabin theft cases in Asia has been blamed on members of organised crime groups, who catch short-transit flights – including trips to Singapore – to steal small items from passengers. Read full story
'Deeply concerning' distraction thefts reported in Saanich: police
Saanich Police says three distraction thefts have been reported along the Shelbourne corridor, and people in the area are asked to be cautious. Over the past three weeks, three people reported being approached by the suspects, who often appeared in distress or with offers of jewelry. The suspect in the distraction thefts would then use physical closeness, like hugging or placing items on the victim, to distract the victim and remove jewelry, acc…
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