A cherished money tree has been returned to its rightful owners at a Chinese takeaway in Chatham following a swift investigation by local authorities. Kent Police began looking into the disappearance of the plant after it was reported stolen from the Castle Road business at approximately 5:20 pm on Monday, May 4, 2026.
The investigation reached a breakthrough on Tuesday, May 12, when officers successfully recovered the tree. During the operation, a man and a woman, both Romanian nationals, were arrested in connection with the theft and currently remain in police custody.
The reunion took place later that same day when PC Katie Middleton, the beat officer for Luton, and PC Maddison Sawyer, the beat officer for Chatham Central, personally delivered the prized plant back to the takeaway. Money trees hold significant cultural value, particularly within Chinese tradition, where they serve as symbols of prosperity, wealth, and continued good fortune for a business.
Enquiries into the circumstances are ongoing. Anyone with information or footage that might assist detectives are asked to contact Kent Police on 01634 792209, quoting reference 46/70542/26. You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete their online form.