2 arrested over in-flight watch theft; woman held for carrying suspected pepper spray at airport

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Airport police yesterday received a report that a male passenger on a flight from Abu Dhabi to Hong Kong had placed his backpack in the overhead compartment above his seat. He later discovered that a watch valued at 300,000 dollars was missing from the bag and suspected it had been stolen.

Airport police arrested a 40-year-old local woman and a 32-year-old mainland man after preliminary investigations, on suspicion of theft. Both suspects are currently being detained for further enquiries.

In a separate case on the same day, airport police received a report from airport security staff during departure screening. A prohibited item was discovered inside a piece of hand luggage belonging to a 69-year-old local woman who was preparing to depart for the United States.

Following initial investigations, the woman was arrested on suspicion of violating the Firearms and Ammunition Ordinance. Police said she was suspected of carrying a canister of pepper spray in her hand luggage. She has since been released on bail pending further investigation.

Both cases have been taken over by the Airport District Crime Squad for follow-up investigation.

Police reminded passengers to remain vigilant while on board aircraft, to lock and properly secure their carry-on baggage, and to exercise extra caution when leaving their seats. Cash and valuables should be kept on one's person or entrusted to travelling companions. Travellers are also advised to carefully check their belongings before disembarking.

Police stressed that theft is a serious offence, carrying a maximum penalty of 10 years' imprisonment upon conviction.

Authorities also noted that some travellers attempt to bring prohibited items -- such as batons, knuckle-dusters, flick knives, ammunition shells or pepper spray - out of Hong Kong. Under Hong Kong law, carrying prohibited items on board an aircraft, whether in checked or hand luggage, is illegal and carries a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment.