CASES of in-flight theft across Asia are on the rise, with Malaysia recording the steepest increase, as authorities suspect the involvement of organised crime syndicates targeting passengers on short-haul transit routes, including flights through Singapore.
According to a report by Berita Harian, Singapore, Hong Kong saw 169 in-flight theft cases in the first 10 months of 2024—an increase of 75 per cent from the same period the previous year. The stolen items were valued at approximately HK$4.32 million (RM2.33 million).
In an interview with The Straits Times, Assistant Commissioner M Malathi, Commander of Singapore’s Airport Police Division, noted that such crimes are difficult to detect and investigate.
“These syndicates often work in pairs and will take outbound flights from Changi Airport soon after landing,” she said.
“They usually steal small amounts of cash or one or two cards. They avoid taking entire wallets, as that would be more noticeable,” she explained, adding that timely reporting is crucial for authorities to track and intercept suspects before they board connecting flights.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA), which represents around 300 airlines, has voiced concern over the rise in cabin thefts over the past 12 to 18 months.
Malaysia reported 146 theft cases aboard aircraft in the first 10 months of 2024, a sharp increase from 88 in the same period in 2023 and 33 in 2022.
Vietnamese authorities also flagged similar tactics, noting that perpetrators often purchase last-minute tickets, avoid check-in baggage, and switch between domestic and international routes and carriers to avoid detection.
At a recent general meeting in India, IATA representatives said many of the cases appear to be linked to syndicates operating out of China.
A review by The Straits Times found that four out of five individuals charged with in-flight theft in 2025 were Chinese nationals. - June 29, 2025
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