A 25-year-old Chinese national was taken into custody at Changi Airport on 8 August after allegedly trying to steal a bag from the business class cabin of a Dubai-to-Singapore flight.
The police revealed that the incident occurred mid-flight when the suspect was seen opening an overhead compartment belonging to another passenger, who was asleep at the time. The victim’s wife spotted the man’s actions and immediately confronted him. This prompted the suspect to return the bag before any items were removed. She later informed her husband about what had happened.
Airport Police officers were waiting at Changi Airport when the plane landed. Upon questioning, the suspect was reportedly unable to provide a satisfactory reason for his behaviour. Before he could board his next flight, he was arrested.
Facing Charges Under International Aviation Law
The man is set to be charged in court on 10 August for theft under Section 379 of the Penal Code 1871, read with Section 3 of the Tokyo Convention Act 1971. This act is part of an international treaty governing passenger conduct and covers any actions that threaten the safety of individuals or property on board civilian aircraft.
If found guilty, he faces imprisonment, a fine, or both. Theft cases in flight are treated seriously due to the confined environment and the difficulty in responding to incidents mid-air.
Police Advice for Travellers
The Singapore Police Force has urged passengers to safeguard their belongings while flying. Valuables and cash should be kept on one’s person instead of being stored in overhead compartments. Travellers should also remain alert if they notice other passengers opening luggage compartments and handling bags that are not theirs.
Passengers are encouraged to immediately notify cabin crew of any suspicious behaviour to ensure quick intervention. As air travel resumes at higher volumes, authorities stress that vigilance is crucial in preventing in-flight crimes.