A woman has been caught on CCTV allegedly stealing tip jars from multiple cafes on the Gold Coast, with some jars containing up to six months' worth of cash. Security footage shows the woman waiting for staff to become distracted before placing the jars in her handbag and leaving quickly.
Goya Cafe owner Chana Murakawa told 7News, 'Five seconds and she's gone.' About an hour later, another cafe was similarly targeted. Owner Sonia Griggins said, 'We quickly looked back on camera and couldn't believe it.'
Business owners report the alleged thefts have occurred over the past two weeks in areas including Broadbeach, Miami, Coolangatta, and Kirra. Affected businesses include Goya Cafe, Beefy's Pies, and Cafe All Sorts.
Jennifer Roch said the stolen jar from her business contained donations for animal rescue organization 4Paws. 'Ours was a charity jar, so we donate to 4Paws charity and people put tips in, so there was a fair bit in there,' she said. Ms. Murakawa noted her jar held about six months' worth of tips.
Queensland Police urge anyone with information to come forward.
