Mainland man admits in-flight theft, judge questions frequent travels and possible premeditation

A 48-year-old mainland man pleaded guilty to in-flight theft.

But the judge questions his frequent travels and possible premeditation and ordered the prosecution to further investigate the case.

The man admitted to one count of committing an act that disrupted order on board an aircraft after he was found to have stolen a diamond ring worth about 24,000 dollars and a bracelet valued at around 18,000 dollars.

The District Court judge says that the defendant worked casual jobs in the mainland, earning 3,000 dollars a month and questioned his purpose in travelling to Dubai.

Noting that the defendant's travel frequency is "more often than you and I," the judge says leniency would risk encouraging similar crimes.

Sentencing has been adjourned until March 12th.