A woman in Shanghai has been accused of systematically changing boyfriends in order to steal valuables from their homes, in a case that has drawn widespread attention for both its brazenness and planning. Authorities said the suspect targeted financially well-off men, quickly entered romantic relationships, and then robbed their residences once trust had been established.
According to police accounts, one of the victims, a man surnamed Zhang, reported the incident after discovering that his girlfriend had emptied his home while he was at work. The man, who lives in Shanghai’s Baoshan district, said he had met the woman, known as Xiaoxue, at a bar just a week earlier. Their relationship progressed rapidly, and the two spent time together at his home shortly before the theft.
Mr Zhang told officers that he left for work the morning after spending the night with Xiaoxue, expecting to celebrate Valentine’s Day with her later that evening. Instead, what unfolded was something he described as “completely unbelievable”.
Girlfriend Allegedly Caught on CCTV Clearing Out Entire Flat
Footage from the home’s CCTV system showed Xiaoxue getting out of bed shortly after Mr Zhang left. She allegedly began searching through the flat and packing up valuables without hesitation. The recordings, which were linked to Mr Zhang’s mobile phone, allowed him to watch the events unfold in real time.
What initially confused him soon turned into shock. The woman reportedly contacted a delivery service, and workers arrived to help remove items from the flat. According to Mr Zhang, even household appliances were taken. When he messaged Xiaoxue to ask what was happening, she allegedly claimed she had ordered food delivery, attempting to downplay the situation.
Only after Mr Zhang confronted her with the existence of CCTV footage and mentioned going to the police did her tone change. She reportedly sent messages pleading for forgiveness and promised to return the stolen items immediately.
Pattern of Deception Raises Wider Concerns
Despite the promises, the items were never returned. When Mr Zhang went back to his flat, he found it largely empty and discovered that Xiaoxue had blocked his contact details and vanished. Feeling angry, deceived and embarrassed, he eventually decided to lodge a police report.
Investigators later revealed that this was not an isolated case. The suspect is believed to have used similar methods on multiple men, relying on her appearance and charm to gain access to their homes. Police sources said she had set ambitious financial goals for herself but pursued them through criminal means.
The case has sparked discussion online about modern dating risks, particularly in major cities where relationships can form quickly through nightlife and social platforms. Legal experts have warned that such crimes highlight the importance of personal security and caution, even in seemingly intimate relationships.
Authorities reminded the public to be vigilant about allowing new acquaintances into their homes and to secure valuables at all times. Investigations into the full extent of the alleged thefts are ongoing.