Credit Card Theft on SriLankan Airlines UL181 (CMB → KTM) – Please Be Aware

[acyz90]

Hi everyone,

I wanted to share an unfortunate incident that happened to me today in case it helps others stay vigilant.

I was travelling on SriLankan Airlines flight UL 181 from Colombo (CMB) to Kathmandu (KTM) in seat 1A. During the flight — likely while I was sleeping — two credit cards (HSBC and BankSA) and USD 200 cash went missing from my bag. I only realised the loss after landing in Kathmandu, by which time my cards had already been used fraudulently for around AUD 10,000 in pending transactions.

I immediately contacted both banks to block and reissue the cards, and to dispute the transactions. I have also reported the matter to SriLankan Airlines and the police, although the Nepal Tourist Police declined to open a case.

I can’t say for certain whether it was a passenger or crew member, but the theft clearly happened during the flight. I’m sharing this so others are aware that theft can happen even in premium cabins, and to keep valuables on your person at all times—even when you’re just stretching your legs or sleeping.

Stay safe, and watch your belongings closely.

 

[MEL_Traveller]

Oh no! Thankfully the transactions will be protected, but the inconvenience if not having cards

Can you share any more details? Were the cards in a bag, or handbag, how readily accessible? (just wanting to get an idea of how the thieves managed to find it and the degree of difficulty!) Were the transaction made after arrival?

I know it’s hard.. but try not to let it ruin your trip

 

[acyz90]

Oh no! Thankfully the transactions will be protected, but the inconvenience if not having cards

Can you share any more details? Were the cards in a bag, or handbag, how readily accessible? (just wanting to get an idea of how the thieves managed to find it and the degree of difficulty!) Were the transaction made after arrival?

I know it’s hard.. but try not to let it ruin your trip

Thanks, MEL_Traveller.

My wallet and passport were in my Samsonite Holborn backpack (no lock). During take-off on UL181 (CMB → KTM) I was told to put it in the overhead bin. I nodded off during take-off, woke for the meal, then slept again for about an hour.

When I landed and went to buy a SIM card at KTM airport, I discovered only my two Visa credit cards (HSBC & BankSA) and USD 200 were gone. My other cards (Mastercard credit & VISA debit, Medicare, QFF) and the remaining USD 345 were untouched — clearly done so I wouldn’t notice until after the flight.

Within minutes of landing, fraudulent transactions started, spaced ~5 mins apart.

 

[kpc]

Im starting to think I need to lock my carryon esp on my flights where Im likely to sleep. Also will probably need to keep my valuables incl passport on me by my seat. Thanks for the warning / reminder and hope you get reimbursed by the credit card company and enjoy the rest of your holiday.

 

[Hvr]

I always lock my carry on.

I carry my passport, cash and cards in a neck pouch. It results in less worry and means that in the event of an emergency I can evacuate without looking for them.