'Lucky' money tree that was stolen from a Chinese takeaway is returned: Two Romanian nationals are arrested

Published: 23:05, 12 May 2026 | Updated: 23:21, 12 May 2026 A 'lucky' money tree that was stolen from a Kent Chinese takeaway has been returned to its owners, while two Romanian nationals have been arrested. The Pachira aquatica plant had been given to the owner of Bill's Kitchen in Chatham, Hongyan Zhu, by her father when she took over the business 15 years ago. Ms Zhu said she and her team were working in the kitchen at the time of the theft on the evening of May 4 and did not hear anything.  CCTV shows a woman entering the restaurant and walking towards the plant before gesturing with another woman outside sat in a parked car. Another man then enters, takes the plant and heads back to the car along with the woman already inside the restaurant. After the theft was reported to Kent Police, the family restaurant has been reunited with their houseplant and a man and a woman have been arrested in connection with the incident. The two Romanian nationals remain in custody. Money trees are commonly kept in homes and businesses, particularly in Chinese culture, as a symbol of wealth and fortune.  CCTV recorded shows a woman entering Bill's Kitchen in Chatham, Kent, where she inspects the money tree before another man then enters and takes the plant Speaking at the time of the incident, Ms Zhu said the money tree held deep personal value. 'This plant has been there since I took over the shop. It was a special opening gift from my father, wishing us good fortune,' she said. 'I've taken great care of it over the years. It's very hard for me to accept.' Kent Police said in a statement: '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.' Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.