[VIDEO] Man Warns Against Keeping Valuables In Overhead Bins After In-Flight Theft
PSA: Keep your valuables with you!
By May Vin Ang — 16 Jul 2024, 12:25 PM
A frequent flyer has warned travellers about the risks of storing valuables in overhead compartments of planes after witnessing a theft firsthand
In an Instagram Reel on 5 July, an employee of travel company LFG recounted an incident aboard an AirAsia flight from Malaysia to Vietnam, describing it as a "daylight robbery".
The witness reported observing a passenger taking bags out of the overhead compartment, only to return them later.
Subsequently, three passengers seated at the front discovered their valuables, including cash and credit cards, missing.
In the 56-second video, flight attendants can be seen questioning passengers and uncovering a wad of cash concealed in a sock, allegedly belonging to the thief.
The LFG employee said he was asked to provide a witness statement upon landing in Ho Chi Minh City, shortly after catching the alleged perpetrator trying to sneak away
"We [...] also learned that this guy came in a group of four, who always flew one-day transit flights all around the world," he said.
The incident, confirmed by AirAsia to SAYS, occurred on a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Ho Chi Minh City on 3 July and has been reported to Vietnamese airport authorities.
The airline company added that its cabin crew members are trained to handle security incidents like these and are always vigilant in monitoring guest behaviour.
"We also advise guests onboard to always safeguard their valuables and to report any suspicious activities to the cabin crew immediately," the airline said.
The video has garnered close to one million views on Instagram, with netizens providing more suggestions on how to keep belongings safe during a flight
"Always put your luggage in the cabin opposite your seat, not directly above your seat. This way, you can observe who is accessing your luggage," suggested one Instagram user.
Another said passengers should always keep their valuables like cash, electronic devices, and passports either on their person or in their line of sight, such as under the seat in front of them.
A netizen also advised passengers to never leave their belongings unattended when using the toilet.
"It's a hassle but I'd rather not find something missing afterwards," they said.
