Japan tackles rising in-flight thefts with manga campaign

To combat this issue, police are working with Narita Airport management and ZIPAIR Tokyo on an awareness campaign. In November last year, ZIPAIR staff distributed 200 manga flyers drawn by a former police officer who was also a manga artist. These flyers offer tips on safeguarding valuables during flights.

Hong Kong has also seen an increase in in-flight thefts. The Hong Kong Security Bureau recorded 169 cases over the first ten months of 2024, with most occurring on short-haul flights from Southeast Asia. According to Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung's report to the Legislative Council, these incidents involved cash and valuable items totaling approximately HK$4.32 million (about $552,000).

Despite arrests made between January and October last year involving four Chinese nationals suspected of onboard thefts, no convictions have been secured due to insufficient evidence or witness unwillingness.

In response to these crimes without resorting to onboard CCTV due to privacy concerns, Hong Kong police collaborate with airlines and airports for awareness campaigns instead. They organized seminars covering crime trends for airport stakeholders and issued materials urging travelers to secure their belongings properly.

Travelers are advised not to store valuables in easily accessible places like seat pockets or overhead bins but rather keep them close at all times using security belts or small cross-body bags worn throughout flights.