A 39-year-old Turkish businessman Mustasa Saci lost lost $257,730 in cash and valuables in an in-flight theft en-route from Hong Kong to Dubai.

The watch merchant had his money and valuables stolen from his carry-on luggage stowed in an overhead compartment. Hong Kong police said that he alerted Emirates airline staff early on Monday, and they called the authorities.

Despite carrying the equivalent of almost 2 crore Rupees, Saci was seated in economy class. Along with money, he lost two watches, a Rolex and a Patek Philippe.

A spokesperson for Emirates, the airline the man took to Hong Kong, said: "Emirates is working closely with the police department and providing information to assist with their investigation."