The Ministry of Public Security has issued a warning about a rise in sophisticated theft activities by foreign nationals who purchase business class tickets to steal property on flights, particularly during the busy Tet holiday season.
Modus Operandi of Criminal Groups
According to authorities, these criminal groups operate with a high level of coordination, assigning specific roles to members such as stealing property, dispersing, and concealing stolen items. Their tactics include:
- Frequent entry and exit from Vietnam, sometimes hundreds of times a year.
- Quick turnaround between flights, often re-entering the country within one to two days.
- Regularly changing flights, airlines, and routes, combining international and domestic flights.
- Booking tickets close to the departure date and avoiding checked baggage to evade detection.
The criminals also strategically select convenient seats, often in business class, to access overhead luggage compartments where valuable items are stored in carry-on bags.
Recent Arrests and Deportations
During a crackdown on crime leading up to the Lunar New Year 2025, the Immigration Department, in collaboration with relevant agencies, successfully arrested three individuals and deported one foreign national involved in stealing property from passengers aboard Vietnamese airlines.
Preventative Measures and Warnings
The Immigration Department has identified this as a new and increasingly sophisticated crime. Passengers are urged to remain vigilant, especially when traveling during peak periods like Tet. To ensure security and protect personal belongings, travelers are advised to monitor their carry-on luggage closely, report any suspicious behavior to airline staff or authorities immediately.
The Department emphasized the importance of collective awareness and cooperation in combating this emerging threat to ensure the safety and order of air travel.
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Source: Vietnam Insider