A Chinese national has been apprehended by Delhi Police for allegedly committing theft on an Air India flight traveling from Hong Kong to Delhi. The accused, identified as 30-year-old Benlai Pan, was taken into custody upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport on May 17, 2025.

This arrest has brought to light what appears to be a sophisticated international syndicate involved in in-flight thefts. The details of the theft, including the type and value of the stolen items, have not been specified in the initial reports. However, the police are conducting further investigations to determine the extent of the syndicate's operations and to identify any potential accomplices.

Instances of theft on flights, particularly on routes to and from Hong Kong, have been reported in the past. In one case, a passenger on a flight from Delhi to Hong Kong discovered that gold worth Rs 30 lakh was missing from his cabin bag. Prompt action by the airline crew led to the recovery of the gold. In another incident, a passenger flying from Delhi to Hong Kong had US$3,000 stolen from their carry-on luggage, with the US$100 bills replaced by US$1 bills. In February 2025, Hong Kong police arrested a passenger for allegedly stealing cash from overhead luggage on a flight from Penang.

These incidents highlight the importance of passengers taking precautions to protect their belongings while flying. Some safety tips include keeping valuables and cash secure, being aware of individuals accessing overhead compartments, and reporting any suspicious behavior to the cabin crew. Airlines also advise passengers to avoid leaving their belongings unattended and to keep them within sight whenever possible.

The arrest of Benlai Pan and the ongoing investigation into the international in-flight theft syndicate demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combatting such crimes and ensuring the safety and security of air travelers.