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Tseng, 72, only realized the theft upon returning to Hong Kong. Taking to Facebook, Tseng described the incident as a “perfect crime,” as reported by 8days.

She wrote, “Wow! Opened my suitcase at home and all the valuables were stolen. Believe it or not,” suspecting her suitcase was tampered with after check-in.

Among the stolen items were a Louis Vuitton handbag and a coat, valued at over NT$210,000 (US$7,146), exceeding the cost of her round-trip airfare, she said. Tseng believed the theft occurred on the airport’s conveyor belt system and has since filed a police report with UK authorities, the South China Morning Post reported.

She shared a photo of her suitcase, which had a red “Priority” tag attached, suggesting that the tag may have attracted thieves by implying the presence of valuable items. She advised her followers never to use “Priority” tags on their luggage again. “Next time, I’m putting a camera inside my suitcase.”

Her post quickly went viral, sparking outrage among netizens. One commenter called the incident “outrageous,” while others condemned the audacity of the thieves. Some suggested Tseng pursue compensation through insurance, but she dismissed the idea, saying, “Don’t be so naive.”

Industry experts have indicated that travel insurance may cover the loss, provided it was purchased in advance and includes coverage for lost items. However, the level of compensation depends on the type of insurance plan and the evidence available.

Paul Law Siu-hung, chairman of the International Professional Insurance Consulting Association, advised travelers to immediately contact the airport and airlines if they discover missing items and to photograph their luggage before closing it as evidence.

Selina Lau Pui-ling, CEO of the Hong Kong Federation of Insurers, stressed the importance of taking precautions, even when insurance is in place.