A traveler's close call with suspected child luggage thief

A traveler recounted an incident in which her luggage was nearly taken by a child, leading her to suspect that some might be exploiting children to facilitate the theft.

In a post on social media platform Threads, the poster stated she was waiting next to the baggage carousel after returning from Japan on Sunday (Feb 2).

However, the poster's friend later noticed a girl picking up the poster's suitcase, prompting them to approach the girl and inform her that she was taking the wrong luggage.

The poster added that the girl was on the phone at the time and left without responding after they stopped her.

Finding the situation suspicious, the poster's friend followed the child and discovered her leaving with a woman with no traces of waiting for any other luggage.

The poster expressed her frustration, stating her suitcase would have been stolen if her friend had not noticed, urging the public to stay vigilant at the airport.

The post triggered a heated response, with another web user sharing similar experiences,  including her daughter's suitcase being stolen after a journey from Japan on January 2, and recounting an event in which two males nearly seized her briefcase.

Another user said that it is typical to see individuals mistakenly pick up the wrong suitcases and doubt whether such actions are intentional.

The post also sparked speculation that individuals might be using children to avoid suspicion, with some suggesting that Hong Kong International Airport adopt a similar approach to Shenzhen's Bao'an International Airport, where staff would randomly check tickets against luggage before passengers left. 

A formal airline employee commented that such incidents are not uncommon, especially since few passengers check their luggage tags.

Meanwhile, several web users voiced confidence in the airport and advised travelers to be cautious because anyone may grab any luggage at any time.