A Chinese takeaway in Kent was left shocked after thieves were caught on CCTV stealing a “money tree” plant in broad daylight, a treasured item that had been part of the business for over 15 years.
The incident happened at Bill’s Kitchen in Chatham, where footage showed a group arriving outside the premises before one man quickly entered the shop and removed the potted plant. The theft took place while staff were busy in the kitchen and unaware of what was happening.
In the CCTV recording, a woman is seen pointing towards the plant from a parked car before another woman enters the shop and approaches the counter. Moments later, a man rushes in, grabs the plant, and carries it back to a waiting vehicle before all three leave the scene.
The plant, a Pachira aquatica, is widely regarded in Chinese culture as a symbol of luck, wealth and prosperity. It had been gifted to the restaurant owners more than a decade ago and held significant sentimental value.
Owner Hongyan Zhu told KentOnline that the theft happened very quickly and no staff noticed the incident at the time. She said the shop door had been left open due to hot weather, allowing the suspects easy access.
She added that the plant was originally a special gift from her father when she took over the business, describing it as irreplaceable due to its emotional significance. Zhu said she has since reported the matter to police and is hoping for its return.
Authorities have been alerted and investigations are ongoing into the incident.
