A nasi bajet trader in Ipoh was left shocked after two men allegedly pretended to buy food before stealing her cash box and mobile phone in broad daylight.
The incident reportedly took place at a stall along Lebuh Meru Raya at around noon on Thursday (22 May). According to local reports, the trader was busy packing food for customers when the two suspects arrived on a Yamaha Y15ZR motorcycle.
The pair allegedly acted like regular customers and approached the stall to place an order, allowing them to get close without raising suspicion.
Suspects allegedly fled with cash box and mobile phone
Ipoh district police chief Assistant Commissioner Muhammad Najib Hamzah said authorities received a police report from the 21-year-old victim on the same day.
While the trader was occupied preparing nasi bajet orders, the suspects allegedly grabbed the stall’s cash box along with her mobile phone before fleeing the scene on their motorcycle towards Bulatan Meru Raya.
The victim is believed to have suffered losses amounting to around RM2,000 (approximately S$570), including both cash and the stolen phone.
Screenshots circulating online also showed the suspects standing near the stall moments before the alleged theft happened.
TikTok livestream footage of incident spreads online
The case quickly gained attention after footage from a TikTok livestream was shared across social media platforms.
In one of the posts, the uploader claimed the incident happened at her mother’s stall, identified as Nasi Bajet Yanti in Meru, Ipoh. She also appealed to members of the public to help identify the two men involved.
Many netizens expressed sympathy for the trader, pointing out how small food businesses already face rising operating costs and tight profit margins. Others criticised the suspects for allegedly targeting a hawker trying to earn an honest living.
The viral footage has since sparked discussions online about the growing number of petty theft cases affecting small traders and roadside food vendors in Malaysia.
Police investigating case under theft offences
Police are currently working to track down the suspects involved in the case.
Authorities said investigations are ongoing under Section 379 of the Malaysian Penal Code for theft. Members of the public who may have information related to the incident have been urged to contact the Ipoh district police headquarters operations room or visit the nearest police station.
The incident has also served as a reminder for hawkers and small business owners to remain alert, especially during busy operating hours when distractions can make them vulnerable to opportunistic crimes.