Man loses RM60,000 in mid air theft on KL-Penang flight

BALIK PULAU: Police are looking for a foreign national suspected of stealing RM60,000 from a passenger's backpack during a domestic flight from Kuala Lumpur to Penang.

Southwest district police chief Assistant Commissioner Anuwal Ab Wahab said the 54-year-old victim discovered the cash missing upon arriving at the Penang International Airport yesterday.

"The complainant suspects a foreign man who was on the same flight was involved in the incident," he said.

Anuwal said investigators are reviewing flight passenger manifests and closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage to trace the suspect's movements.

The case is being investigated under Section 379 of the Penal Code for theft.

This marks the second mid-air theft attempt reported in the district within a week.

On Sept 17, police received a report regarding an attempted theft aboard an incoming flight to Penang.

A 55-year-old Chinese national arrested in connection with that case was charged at the Balik Pulau magistrate's court today under Section 379 read together with Section 511 of the Penal Code.

Anuwal advised the public to remain vigilant and keep personal belongings, especially cash and valuables, secure and under constant supervision when using public transport, including while on flights.