30-10-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) Police have detained three Chinese nationals in connection with a sophisticated theft operation at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), following the targeting of a Japanese traveller who lost more than RM7,600 in fraudulent transactions.
Assistant Commissioner Azman Shariat, KLIA’s Officer in Charge of Police District (OCPD), revealed that the investigation began after receiving a report from a Japanese national who discovered his wallet had vanished during his journey through Terminal 1.
The victim only realised the theft when attempting to make a payment in Petaling Jaya on October 22. Upon checking his mobile phone, he found alerts for three unauthorised transactions totalling RM7,622 (approximately £1,270). The tourist recalled noticing his bag’s zipper had been tampered with whilst in the terminal, leading him to promptly cancel all his bank cards.
Swift action by KLIA’s police force led to the apprehension of the three suspects on October 25 within Terminal 1. The arrests mark a significant breakthrough in combating organised crime at one of Southeast Asia’s busiest aviation hubs.
“Our investigation continues as we explore potential links between these individuals and other reported pickpocketing incidents at the airport,” stated AC Azman. The suspects are scheduled to face charges at Sepang courthouse on Wednesday, October 30.
